Air Quality Index (AQI) in Canada 🇨🇦
Live Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Levels in Canada
Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is measured at a score of 6. According to the US EPA health standard, this air quality rating is categorized as Good. The current atmosphere in Ottawa is influenced by a PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) concentration of 1.0 µg/m³ and PM10 levels recorded at 1.0 µg/m³. Monitoring of gaseous pollutants shows Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) at 1.6 µg/m³.
Beyond the primary urban hubs, atmospheric conditions and smog levels fluctuate across Canada based on industrial output, traffic density, and local weather patterns. Real-time pollution data and respiratory health alerts are also being actively monitored in cities like Toronto, Montréal, Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg. Tracking these air quality metrics is essential for residents nationwide to manage outdoor exposure and maintain respiratory safety during periods of increased particulate concentration.
Air Quality Snapshot: Canada Right Now
Across 58 monitored cities in Canada, live air quality currently ranges from a low of 6 AQI in Ottawa (the cleanest air right now) to a high of 59 AQI in Toronto (the most polluted). By US EPA health band, the nationwide distribution stands at 42 Good, 16 Moderate. The average fine-particulate (PM2.5) concentration across these cities is 5.7 µg/m³ — approximately 1.1 times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual air quality guideline of 5 µg/m³.
Canada Air Quality: Major Cities Index
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Pollution Monitor & AQI Forecast: Canada Regions
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* Air Quality Index (AQI) data for Canada is calculated using the US EPA standard. Information is processed from multiple monitoring stations detecting PM2.5, PM10, and gaseous pollutants to ensure accuracy for respiratory health planning.
What Today's Readings Mean in Canada
The median reading across 58 monitored cities is 18.5 AQI. The national spread is 53 points, from 6 in Ottawa to 59 in Toronto. Average PM2.5 is 5.7 µg/m³ (1.1× the WHO annual guideline).
At least one monitored location is in the Moderate range. People unusually sensitive to air pollution may want to reduce prolonged outdoor exertion there.
Air Quality in Canada — FAQ
Common questions about AQI levels, pollutants, and data sources for Canada.