News Summary
A recent study by IQAir reveals that Ontario, California, has the worst air quality in the U.S., with significant health risks from fine particulate matter (PM2.5). This pollution crisis is mainly attributed to traffic congestion and the shipping industry, affecting the health of local residents. The report highlights the struggle for cleaner air and the challenges posed by wildfires and fireworks, urging citizens to take precautions for their health.
Ontario Tops the List of Most Polluted Cities in the U.S.
When it comes to clean air, Ontario, California, is unfortunately leading the charge in the wrong direction. A recent study by IQAir has placed this bustling city at the top of the list for the worst air quality in the entire United States. It’s disheartening news for residents and local communities who find themselves grappling with the implications of living in such polluted surroundings.
What’s Behind the Pollution?
Following Ontario, the positions in the rankings only worsen for the region with Bloomington, Huntington Park, and San Bernardino trailing closely behind. Fontana also made the cut, proudly—or perhaps not so proudly—landing in the top five. To add to the negative spotlight, even Glendora made the top ten, coming in at number eight. Central California isn’t spared either, with cities like Visalia and Hanford also making their impressions felt.
The prime culprit for this dismal air quality is fine particulate matter known as PM2.5. This nasty pollutant is linked to serious health risks, ranging from lung and heart disease to reproductive complications. It’s not just a minor issue; it’s a full-blown health crisis for the communities affected. The sources of PM2.5 are all around us—from exhaust from vehicles, dust from construction sites and unpaved roads, to emissions from smokestacks and even wildfires.
Traffic Congestion: A Major Contributor
Southern California’s notorious traffic congestion on the freeways is a significant factor contributing to the high pollution levels. The area sees heavy traffic which includes a large number of trucks and buses that contribute significantly to the pollution. Interestingly enough, the air pollution doesn’t stop at city borders; it travels. The prevailing winds often carry pollution from Los Angeles into Riverside and San Bernardino counties, complicating the clean air efforts even further.
Port and Logistics Impact
The area’s air quality is also heavily impacted by the shipping and logistics industry. Cargo containers arrive on diesel-powered ships and make their way through the region on polluting fuel, only to have their contents transported by diesel trucks to warehouses in the Inland Empire. This constant flow of heavy-duty vehicles only serves to exacerbate the plight of the air quality.
To put things into perspective, a separate report in 2025 showed that eight of Southern California’s cities ranked among the 50 “dirtiest” nationwide based on living conditions, city infrastructure, and—of course—pollution. The Inland Empire continues to struggle in this regard, boasting a dismal air quality index score of 17.03 for 2023, marking it as the worst in the nation.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
This latest report indicates that the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario metropolitan area had only 54 satisfactory air quality days throughout 2023. To make matters worse, there were 59 unhealthy days for sensitive groups during the same timeframe. For comparison, the Greater Houston area reported an index score of 28.36, placing it second-worst, while Albuquerque followed at 29.64.
Wildfires and Fireworks: Further Complications
Recent events haven’t helped either. Wildfires in Los Angeles County early in 2024 added to pollution levels by burning buildings that released toxic fumes. Independence Day celebrations also added to the mess; fireworks created significant particle pollution, and the South Coast Air Quality Management District issued advisories warning residents of the hazardous air quality following the festivities.
What Can Residents Do?
With air quality at a low point, it begs the question: what can everyday citizens do? Staying indoors, avoiding strenuous activities, and employing air purifiers are some steps that residents are advised to take while navigating these challenging conditions. It’s a difficult situation, and while many may feel helpless, being informed is the first step towards taking control of air quality challenges.
The struggle for cleaner air in the Inland Empire is ongoing, and the community’s health hangs in the balance. Addressing these issues is crucial not only for today’s residents but for future generations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CBS News: Worst Air Pollution Cities
- Google Search: California air pollution
- Lompoc Record: Inland Empire EV Hub
- Google Scholar: California air quality studies
- KTLA: Worst Air Quality Area
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Air Pollution
- Patch: Inland Empire Air Quality
- Google News: Southern California wildfires
- NBC Los Angeles: Wildfire Smoke Impact
