View the PurpleAir Community Map to see real-time particulate matter (PM) readings from low-cost air sensors located throughout the community.

PurpleAir sensors measure particulate matter (PM₁₀, PM₂.₅, and PM₁.₀) and provide neighborhood-level air quality information that can help residents better understand local conditions, especially during wildfire smoke events, windblown dust, and other short-term air quality impacts.

The PurpleAir network is made up of sensors installed, operated, and maintained by community members, businesses, schools, and local agencies.  These sensors supplement, but do not replace, MDAQMD’s regulatory air monitoring stations.

PurpleAir sensors work by using a small fan to draw air past a laser.  As particles pass through the sensor, light is reflected and measured to estimate particle size and concentration.  Using these measurements, the system calculates estimated PM₁.₀, PM₂.₅, and PM₁₀ concentrations and uploads readings to the cloud approximately every 80 seconds for display on the PurpleAir map.

Because PurpleAir sensors are low-cost community monitors, their readings are not used for official Federal or State regulatory determinations or attainment status.  However, they provide valuable supplemental information that helps residents understand air quality conditions closer to home.

To explore local sensor readings, visit the PurpleAir Community Map.

To learn more about PurpleAir technology and community monitoring, visit PurpleAir.