Augusta Air Pollution Among Nation’s Worst Once Again

The Augusta metro area ranked 41st worst in the nation for year-round particle pollution. It got a failing grade in the American Lung Association's annual State of the Air report. The report examined air quality data from 2022 through 2024, grading counties on unhealthy amounts of smog and particle pollution.

The area got an A grade for ozone. It ranked among the cleanest cities nationwide for ozone pollution. For short-term particle pollution, the metro area ranked 180th worst and got a B grade.

"This is our 27th annual 'State of the Air' report," said Danna Thompson, director of advocacy for the American Lung Association in Georgia, per The Augusta Chronicle. "It grades county air quality over a three-year period."

The association pointed to wildfires as a major source. One was burning in South Georgia. Particle pollution also comes from wood-burning stoves, coal power plants, and diesel engines.

Pollutants like smog are tied to premature death and health problems. These include asthma attacks, heart disease, stroke, preterm birth, cognitive impairment, and lung cancer. Particle pollution refers to a mixture of tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air.

Thompson said small lifestyle changes can help bring down pollution. "We encourage people to reduce their contributions to air pollution by prioritizing walking, biking, and clean public transit when possible instead of diesel- or gasoline-powered vehicles," she said.

The association recommends staying indoors on days when air pollution is high. Other tips? Cut back the intensity of outdoor activities on high-pollution days. Use air purifiers to keep indoor air clean. Wear a mask when outdoors during poor air quality conditions.