As hazardous conditions unfold along the US southern border, health officials are advising hundreds of thousands of Americans to remain indoors and keep their windows closed. This urgent recommendation comes amid growing concerns about the air quality across Texas and New Mexico.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued its highest level of alert regarding the air pollution affecting a 150-mile expanse of land. The agency classifies the current levels of pollutants as ‘hazardous’ to human health, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

At the epicenter of this toxic cloud is El Paso, Texas. Positioned along the US-Mexico border, this city is already experiencing high winds, which may be exacerbating the influx of smoke and dust from nearby areas. The combination of these factors has escalated the air quality concerns.

IQAir, a website dedicated to tracking air quality, has flagged the presence of PM10 in the region. PM10 refers to particulate matter that consists of tiny solid particles or liquid droplets in the air, each less than 10 micrometers in diameter—thinner than a human hair.

These inhalable particles pose a significant health risk, as they can penetrate deeply into the lungs when inhaled. Common sources include construction dust, pollen, mold spores, smoke, soot, industrial emissions, and dirt carried by the wind.

While PM10 particles are relatively large, they are distinct from the smaller PM2.5 particles. The latter are microscopic and often consist of toxic compounds or heavy metals emitted from vehicle exhaust and industrial activities.

However, both can damage the lungs, worsen respiratory issues such as asthma, and even contribute to heart attacks and strokes that cause premature death if you breathe in large amounts.

Real-time tracking of the Air Quality Index (AQI) along the US border registered at 290, which is considered extremely dangerous for all individuals, sick or healthy.

Smoke seen over El Paso, Texas in February 2025. Pollutants such as PM10 are typically composed of large particles from smoke, soot, and other toxic emissions (Stock Image)

The EPA’s AirNow tracking system reported extremely hazardous air over Texas and New Mexico on Tuesday

Air quality levels are measured on a scale from 0 to 500: good (0–50) carries little risk, moderate (51–100) may affect sensitive individuals, unhealthy for sensitive groups (101–150) poses increased risk and unhealthy (151–200) impacts everyone, limiting outdoor activity.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a widespread Red Flag Warning and high wind advisories throughout the Southwest, Rocky Mountains, and Great Plains.

Red Flag Warnings means that the conditions for wildfires have reached a critical point and any spark may set off a large blaze.

Anyone in the affected area has been advised to avoid outdoor exercise, limit their time outside, wear a face mask if they leave their home, close all windows to prevent smoke and dust from entering, and turn on air purifiers.

Typically, air quality alerts are set off by stagnant air, where high atmospheric pressure and little to no wind keep airborne pollutants from floating away.

In this instance, Texas and New Mexico are both severe wind warnings, with NWS predicting gusts reaching hurricane-force strength at over 75mph in certain areas on Tuesday. 

‘High winds may move loose debris, damage property and cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles,’ NWS added in their alert.

‘Plumes of blowing dust will create pockets of low visibility. Visibilities will likely change rapidly over short distances, making travel hazardous in these areas.’