Salt Lake City currently has the worst air quality in the U.S.

Smog Lake City. Photo: Twitter @WasatchSnow

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — As of Tuesday afternoon, the air quality in Salt Lake City is the worst in the United States, according to IQAir.

It is ranked #18 for the worst air quality in the world.

“Not much change is expected for northern Utah valleys that have inversions through Wednesday,” the National Weather Service (NWS) said.

“We do expect cooler conditions to mix inversions out partially Thursday, but Friday is expected to be better. There is good agreement with models on a storm moving in that will increase winds and bring colder conditions into Utah, which should be enough to eliminate inversions,” NWS added.

The air quality is listed as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” by the Utah Department of Environmental Quality.

Health recommendations according to IQAir:

• Sensitive groups should wear a mask outdoors
• Everyone should reduce outdoor exercise
• Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor air
• Run an air purifier

Eligible state employees were allowed to work remotely on Tuesday to limit vehicle emissions.

What are the Salt Lake inversions?

Look at that pollution! 🤢
I’m skiing this morning, but I’ll be back tonight for @KUTV2News at 4, 5, 6 & 10pm. Let’s get a storm in here! pic.twitter.com/XPbZ0pp8Kv

— Chase Thomason (@ChaseThomason) January 18, 2022