Report Highlights Regional Trends, Key Influences, and Public Health Measures
COLUMBUS, OH – March 5, 2025 – The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has released its latest End-of-Season Air Quality Report, providing an overview of air quality trends in Central Ohio from November 2023 to October 2024. The report examines key factors influencing air conditions, notable pollution events, and steps residents can take to protect their health.
MORPC, a participant in the national air quality monitoring network, provides daily Air Quality Index (AQI) forecasts and issues public notifications when pollution levels pose health risks. On Air Quality Alert days, sensitive groups—including children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions—may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath and wheezing.
Key Findings from the 2023-2024 Air Quality Report
- Fewer Air Quality Alerts: Only three alerts were issued this season, a significant drop from 11 alerts the previous year, largely due to reduced wildfire smoke impacts in Ohio.
- Overall Air Quality: During the 2023-24 ozone season (March–October), 72% of days fell within the Good AQI category—a 3% decline from the previous year. For fine particulate matter (PM2.5), 60% of days were classified as Good, marking a 17% decrease from last season.
- Notable Pollution Events: October recorded the highest AQI levels of the season, primarily due to stagnant weather and drought conditions that allowed pollutants to accumulate.
- Stricter Air Quality Standards: On February 7, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lowered the permissible annual average of PM2.5 from 12.0 µg/m³ to 9.0 µg/m³. The new standard, effective May 6, 2024, is expected to keep Central Ohio in compliance with federal air quality regulations.
Weather & Air Quality Trends
Warmer-than-average temperatures and below-normal rainfall contributed to elevated ozone levels during the summer months. While wildfire smoke was less severe than in 2023, thin smoke layers occasionally increased pollution levels.
“This report highlights how weather patterns, policy changes, and local factors influence air quality,” said JR Diaz-Hernandez, MORPC’s Air Quality Coordinator. “With continued monitoring and community action, we can protect public health while supporting regional growth.”
Ongoing Air Quality Monitoring & Public Health Efforts
To address data gaps, MORPC is monitoring PM2.5 pollution at the neighborhood level in Franklin County. In partnership with Franklin County Public Health, 36 PurpleAir sensors have been deployed across the county, providing real-time data at purpleair.com.
Residents can stay informed about air quality conditions by signing up for Air Quality Alerts at MORPC.org. Small actions, such as reducing vehicle emissions and avoiding outdoor burning on high-pollution days, can help improve air quality. Additionally, MORPC’s Gohio Commute program promotes carpooling, biking, and public transit to reduce emissions.
For more details and to view the full 2023-24 Air Quality Report, visit MORPC.org.
