What is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized system used to communicate daily air quality levels. It ranges from 0-500, with higher numbers indicating worse air quality and greater health risks. The AQI is color-coded: Green (0-50) is good, Yellow (51-100) is moderate, Orange (101-150) is unhealthy for sensitive groups, Red (151-200) is unhealthy, Purple (201-300) is very unhealthy, and Maroon (301-500) is hazardous.

How often is air quality data updated?

Our real-time air quality data is updated every hour from EPA monitoring stations and satellite data. During wildfire events or air quality emergencies, some locations may provide updates as frequently as every 15-30 minutes to ensure you have the most current information for health and safety decisions.

What should I do when air quality is unhealthy?

When air quality reaches unhealthy levels (AQI 101+), stay indoors with windows and doors closed, use air purifiers or high-efficiency air filters in your HVAC system, avoid outdoor exercise, and consider wearing N95 masks if you must go outside. People with respiratory conditions, heart disease, or other health issues should take extra precautions and consult their healthcare provider.

How do wildfires affect indoor air quality?

Wildfire smoke can infiltrate homes through open doors, windows, ventilation systems, and small gaps in building construction. Even with windows closed, indoor air quality can be significantly impacted. Using high-efficiency air filters (MERV 13 or higher) in your HVAC system and portable air purifiers can help reduce indoor smoke particles and protect your family's health.

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Real-Time Wildfire and Smoke Map Including Air Quality Index Ratings

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Smoke: Observed (last 24h) Forecast (48h)

Layers

Wildfires (points)

Perimeters (outline)

Smoke (light)

Smoke (medium)

Smoke (heavy)

AQI Map (WAQI)

See Where Wildfires Are Burning Now And How To Protect Your Indoor Air

Wildfires are no longer just a local problem. Their smoke can travel hundreds—even thousands—of miles, affecting the air you breathe long after the flames are out.

Use Filterbuy’s Live Wildfire Smoke Map to:

Track active wildfires across the U.S.
See how far wildfire smoke is spreading—even into your region
Learn how to protect your family’s lungs indoors with expert recommendations

Wildfire Smoke Travels Far And Lingers Long

Even if there’s no fire near you, wildfire smoke may already be in your air. Scientific research confirms that PM2.5 fine particles from wildfire smoke can travel across state lines and penetrate deep into your lungs.

Health risks from wildfire smoke include:

Headaches, fatigue, brain fog
Worsened asthma or allergies
Heart and lung inflammation
Long-term effects even after short exposures

How To Protect Your Indoor Air During Wildfire Events

Step 1: Check Your Air Quality

Use the wildfire map and our AQI map for your area daily to check for events near you that may be affecting your air quality.

Step 2: Switch To A MERV 13 Filter

The EPA recommends using air filters rated MERV 13 or higher during wildfire smoke events.

Capture PM2.5 particles from wildfire smoke
Block ash, soot, and smoke odor
Keeps your indoor air safe even when outdoor air is dangerous
Meets EPA guidance for wildfire smoke days

MERV 13

Captures 98% of Airborne particles, including smoke and smog

SHOP MERV 13

Note: Standard filters (MERV 8 and below) will NOT protect against wildfire smoke.

Once outdoor air quality improves, you can switch back to your regular filter to maximize airflow and cost-efficiency. Buy in bulk and keep on hand for wildfire and smoke events in your area.

Did You Know?

Over 70,000 wildfires burn in the U.S. every year.
Wildfire smoke can travel 1,000+ miles, affecting states that aren’t even near the blaze.
Exposure to wildfire smoke can worsen asthma, trigger heart issues, and lead to ER visits.
Indoor air can become 5× more polluted than outdoor air during wildfire events—unless properly filtered.
The EPA advises using MERV 13 filters or portable HEPA air cleaners during wildfire smoke events.

Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality FAQs

Don’t wait until the smoke’s inside.

Use the live wildfire smoke tracker and upgrade your air filters today to protect your lungs and your home.

Shop Filters for Smoke Protection

FILTERBUY MERV-13 indoor air filter for optimal air quality and HVAC performance