As daily air quality forecasting resumes for the 2026 season on May 1, the American Lung Association’s newly released “State of the Air” report shows that residents across the St. Louis region continue to face unhealthy air—even after decades of progress to reduce pollution.
The national report, which examines air quality data from 2022–2024, finds that 44% of people nationwide—approximately 152.3 million individuals—live in areas that received failing grades for unhealthy levels of ozone or particle pollution. While particle pollution showed slight improvement compared to long-term trends, ozone pollution worsened, affecting more people than in each of the previous five reports and underscoring the need for continued regional, state and local action.
A long-term look at data for the St. Louis region reveals both progress and persistent concern. In the late 1990s, the region averaged nearly 50 high-ozone days each summer. In the most recent reporting period, that number dropped to an average of just over 10 days per year—a clear indication that air quality programs, cleaner technologies and voluntary emission reductions have made a difference over time.
However, recent rankings show that the region still faces substantial challenges. For the second consecutive year within the past decade, the St. Louis metro area ranked among the top 25 most ozone-polluted cities in the U.S., tying for 24th out of 226 metropolitan areas. The region also ranked 31st nationally for annual particle pollution.
The report also adds to growing evidence that climate-related factors—such as rising temperatures, prolonged drought and increased wildfire activity—are making it harder to protect hard-earned gains in air quality. These conditions contribute to more frequent high-ozone days and short-term pollution spikes, increasing health risks for millions of people nationwide.
In the bi-state St. Louis non-attainment area, all eight counties received failing grades for ozone pollution in this year’s report. Ozone exposure remains the most widespread air pollution concern in the country. During the three-year period analyzed, 38% of the U.S. population—about 129.1 million people—were exposed to ozone levels that put their health at risk. That includes tens of millions of children, older adults, and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Nearly half of all children in the U.S. are breathing unhealthy air, including almost 500,000 kids in Missouri alone.
As the summer air quality season approaches, everyday choices can make a meaningful difference. Actions like adjusting travel habits, conserving energy and staying informed about air quality conditions help reduce pollution and protect those most vulnerable to unhealthy air.
The Clean Air Partnership encourages residents throughout the St. Louis region to stay informed about local air quality conditions, especially on orange or red air quality days, when people should consider adjusting outdoor activities to reduce exposure to polluted air. Daily, color‑coded air quality forecasts are available at CleanAir-StLouis, where individuals can also sign up to receive alerts by email or text through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s EnviroFlash system. Forecasts are also shared on AirNow.gov, during First Alert 4 weather broadcasts and at FirstAlert4.com. In addition, CleanAir-StLouis offers air quality tips, seasonal updates and helpful resources. Residents can also stay connected by following the Clean Air Partnership on Facebook or on X @gatewaycleanair.
To access the full American Lung Association 2026 “State of the Air” report, visit Lung.org.
