Allegheny County Air Quality Level Expected to Lower for Saturday
Published on July 17, 2026
Allegheny County Air Quality Level Expected to Lower for Saturday
PITTSBURGH – The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) indicates that PM2.5 levels will fall into the YELLOW (moderate) range of the Air Quality Index scale for Saturday, July 18.
A Code Purple (Very Unhealthy) Air Quality Alert remains in effect until midnight tonight.
For Saturday, expect a warm front to advance into PA from the south and west. This will do two things:
- Push the smoke northeast as it tracks northeastward into the Commonwealth.
- Push a much more humid air mass in over the area. This new air mass will allow the chance of rain to increase throughout the day, with the biggest threat of strong storms during the afternoon hours. Any shower development will occur from west to east across Pennsylvania
The U.S. Air Quality Index is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s tool for communicating about outdoor air quality and health. Code Yellow (Moderate) indicates that: Air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
The U.S. EPA, DEP, and Allegheny County Health Department recommend the following guidance:
Code Yellow (Moderate):
Unusually sensitive people: Consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense. Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. These are signs to take it easier.
General Public: It’s a good day to be active outside.
Get the latest local updates on air quality by enrolling in Allegheny Alerts for free.
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The Allegheny County Health Department's mission is to protect, promote, and preserve the health and well-being of the more than 1.2 million people who call Allegheny County home.
Media inquiries may be directed to Ronnie Das,
Public Information Officer for the Health Department,
at ronnie.das@alleghenycounty.us or by phone at 412-578-7991.