Wainiha, Hawaii Air Quality
Wainiha has a median AQI of 13, earning an air quality grade of A+ — excellent air quality that ranks better than 98% of US cities. Air quality has been improving steadily over the past decade, a positive sign for residents. Particulate matter (PM2.5) is the primary concern, often linked to vehicle traffic, industrial activity, and wildfire smoke. In 2022, Wainiha recorded 90 good air quality days (100% of monitored days).
Population: 362 • County: Kauai
Current AQI
Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 4 — Good |
| Air Quality Grade | A+ |
| Median AQI (2022) | 13 |
| vs. U.S. Cities | Better than 98% |
| Primary Pollutant | PM2.5 |
| Unhealthy Days/Year | 0 |
| 10-Year Trend | ↑ Improving |
| Data Source | EPA AQS (historical) · AirNow (live) |
Health Recommendation
Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
It's a great day to be active outside!
5-Day AQI Forecast
Last 90 Days
Current Pollutant Levels
Real-time data from EPA AirNow
Local Air Quality Context
Air quality data for Wainiha is sourced from the Fort Bragg High School monitoring area, located approximately 2411 miles from city center. This EPA-certified station continuously tracks particulate matter (PM2.5), the primary driver of air quality alerts in this area.
Wainiha tends to see elevated PM2.5 readings during fall and winter months when temperature inversions trap pollutants near the surface. Wood burning, vehicle exhaust, and reduced wind speeds compound the effect. Residents with respiratory conditions should monitor forecasts closely between November and February.
AQI Trend (10 Years)
Air Quality Days by Year
Wainiha Median AQI by Year
Annual EPA air quality data for Wainiha — median AQI, day-category breakdown, and primary pollutant per year.
| Year | Median AQI | Good Days | Unhealthy Days | Max AQI | Primary Pollutant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 13 | 90 | — | 38 | PM2.5 |
| 2021 | 17 | 364 | — | 47 | PM2.5 |
| 2020 | 15 | 361 | — | 52 | PM2.5 |
| 2019 | 16 | 361 | — | 70 | PM2.5 |
| 2018 | 18 | 350 | — | 56 | PM2.5 |
| 2017 | 15 | 353 | — | 59 | PM2.5 |
| 2016 | 17 | 352 | — | 59 | PM2.5 |
Source: EPA Air Quality System (AQS) annual summaries. "Unhealthy Days" includes Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy, and Hazardous categories.
2022 Air Quality Summary
Primary Pollutant Days (2022)
Days when each pollutant was the primary driver of AQI. Learn about pollutants →
Frequently Asked Questions About Wainiha Air Quality
What is the air quality in Wainiha today?
The current AQI in Wainiha is 4, rated "Good". Air quality is good — outdoor activity is safe for everyone today. Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
Is air quality in Wainiha getting better or worse?
Air quality in Wainiha has been improving. The median AQI has dropped 4 points (from 17 in 2016 to 13 in 2022), a positive trend for residents.
What is the most common air pollutant in Wainiha?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in Wainiha, responsible for 76 days (84% of monitored days) in 2022. Particulate matter originates from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, construction, and industrial activity.
How many unhealthy air days does Wainiha have per year?
In 2022, Wainiha recorded 100% good air quality days (90 days) out of 90 monitored days. There were 0 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups days and 0 Unhealthy days (AQI above 100). The highest single-day AQI recorded was 38.
What air quality grade does Wainiha receive?
Wainiha receives an air quality grade of A+, placing it better than 98% of US cities. This is based on a median AQI of 13 in 2022, with 90 good air quality days. The EPA monitors air quality in this area continuously using certified monitoring stations.
Air Quality Grade
Better than 98% of US cities
Nearby Cities
Get AQI Alerts
Receive notifications when air quality changes in Wainiha
National Rankings
See how Wainiha compares to every other US city by air quality.
Best Air Quality Cities →All city rankingsRecommended Air Purifiers for Wainiha
Wainiha sees its worst PM2.5 during winter temperature inversions when particulates get trapped near ground level. A unit with True HEPA and an auto-mode sensor is most effective for responding to these spikes.
Blueair Blue Pure 211+
High performance for large rooms with simple operation.
- ✓Good room size match
- ✓Recommended for your air quality
- ✓High performance
We may earn a commission from purchases
Other Great Options
Molekule Air Pro
Commercial-grade with patented PECO technology for destroying pollutants.
Honeywell HPA300
Powerful workhorse for large rooms. Built to last.
Coway Airmega AP-1512HH
Best overall value for medium rooms. Excellent performance at an affordable price.
Not sure which air purifier is right for you?
Learn more about different types of air purifiers and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Read our complete buying guide →