safety
These US cities have the world's worst air quality as wildfire smoke settles in
By Addy Bink at KTSM 9 News (NBC)
· July 16, 2026
· 1 min read
It may be awhile before conditions improve.
Key takeaway Further information on this situation is available from KTSM 9 News, including details on when conditions may improve, as it is noted that it may be awhile before conditions improve.
According to KTSM 9 News, certain US cities are experiencing the world's worst air quality due to wildfire smoke.
It has been reported that the air quality in these cities is severely impacted by the settling of wildfire smoke.
Further information on this situation is available from KTSM 9 News, including details on when conditions may improve, as it is noted that it may be awhile before conditions improve.
Why this matters in The El Paso
El Paso residents are likely familiar with the challenges of poor air quality, given the city's location in a desert valley surrounded by mountains. The presence of wildfire smoke in US cities with the world's worst air quality is a concern for local residents, who may be wondering how this situation could impact El Paso's own air quality. As the city's air quality is often affected by regional weather patterns and nearby environmental conditions, it is possible that El Paso could experience similar issues if wildfire smoke were to spread to the area. The fact that it may be awhile before conditions improve in affected cities suggests that El Paso residents should remain vigilant and stay informed about local air quality conditions, which could be impacted by the same factors affecting other US cities. This situation also underscores the need for continued monitoring and reporting of air quality in El Paso, to ensure that residents are aware of any potential health risks.
About this story
Original reporting by KTSM 9 News (NBC) . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KTSM 9 News (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 16, 2026 ·
Source: KTSM 9 News (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? It may be awhile before conditions improve.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 16, 2026 by KTSM 9 News (NBC) and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Addy Bink at KTSM 9 News (NBC). To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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