Arak AQI Low for 3 Days

Air quality in Arak, capital of Markazi Province, was unhealthy for sensitive groups for the third day in a row on Saturday.  The Air Quality Index has exceeded 100, twice the acceptable threshold of 50, based on World Health Organization standards. On Saturday, the intensity of tiny particles known as PM 2.5 was at 42 micrograms per cubic meter, which is above the standard 35 mg/cm.  Arak has experienced five days of unhealthy air quality in the last month of summer (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) alone, Mehr News Agency reported.  The index between 101 and 150 is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, which constitute the elderly, pregnant women, children and those suffering from heart diseases and respiratory disorders, and they must limit outdoor exposure.  Particulate matter of more than 2.5 microns has the most adverse effects on air quality. Over the last fiscal year (ended March 20, 2017), AQI was above 100 for 105 days in Arak.