How is Louisiana's air quality? Here are the cleanest, and not so clean, cities in the state

Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Louisiana is approximately 35, which indicates a good air quality.

The AQI scale ranges from zero to 500, with lower numbers, such as those between zero and 50, signaling good air quality that poses little to no risk to public health.

While this means that air quality of Louisiana is generally considered good, there are certain regions of Louisiana where the air quality could pose risks to public health.

What is the air quality like in Louisiana? Here's where it's said to be the best

A region's air quality is considered good when the air is relatively clean and there are few or no pollutants present that day, and there is little to no health risk, says AirNow.

In Louisiana, the areas of Houma, Thibodaux, Lafayette, Morgan City, Monroe, Ruston, Metairie and Hammond are said to be some of the cleanest cities for short-term particle pollution, according to the American Lung Association's "State of the Air" report.

Additionally, according to IQ Air, Louisiana's cleanest cities include:

1. Metairie: AQI of 17

2. River Ridge: AQI of 20

3. Chalmette: AQI of 23

4. Kenner: AQI of 26

5. New Orleans: AQI of 26

6. New Iberia: AQI of 27

7. Erath: AQI of 29

8. Bell City: AQI of 34

9. Slidell: AQI of 34

10. Thibodaux: AQI of 35

Where is the air quality the worst in Louisiana?

The air quality is generally considered the worst in Louisiana's seven parishes along the lower Mississippi River, found within the stretch between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, which is known as "Cancer Alley."

This area is known for having a high concentration of petrochemical plants and refineries, which leads to elevated levels of air pollution and associated health risks, according to ProPublica.

While not as severe as Cancer Alley, Shreveport and surrounding areas experience periods of poor or moderate air quality, with the Air Quality Index reaching the 60s or higher, particularly because of ozone and particulate matter, according to First Street.

In areas with moderate air quality, the air quality is acceptable, although, for a small number of individuals who are unusually sensitive to air pollution, there may be some health concerns, according to AirNow.

In areas with poor air quality, the air quality is unhealthy, especially for sensitive groups, signifing that the levels of certain pollutants in the air have exceeded the national standards, posing a potential risk to public health, says AirNow.

Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at [email protected]

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: What is the air quality of Louisiana? Is it good or bad? What to know