SALT LAKE CITY – Poor air quality is a pressing issue in Utah, particularly during the winter months when temperature inversions trap pollutants in the valleys. In a bid to address this often-overlooked concern, Professor Derek Mallia from the University of Utah’s Department of Atmospheric Science has developed a new mobile application called Flow AQ. This app aims to provide residents with timely and accurate air quality forecasts, empowering them to make informed decisions about outdoor activities. "Air quality is like a silent killer; if you’re exposed to poor air quality over your lifespan, it can significantly impact your life quality," Mallia stated. He emphasized the importance of understanding air quality, particularly for vulnerable populations such as those with asthma or cardiovascular issues. Inversions, which occur when warm air traps cold air near the ground, exacerbate the problem by retaining pollutants and creating a visible haze in the atmosphere. Lexi Tuddenham, a representative from HEAL Utah, elaborated on the conditions that lead to poor air quality. "The warmer air on top of the colder air close to the ground traps all those pollutants in our valley," she explained. This phenomenon leads to Salt Lake City frequently experiencing some of the worst air quality in the nation during the inversion season. Recognizing the challenges residents face in accessing reliable air quality information, Mallia co-founded Trace AQ to create Flow AQ. Unlike standard weather applications which provide limited air quality data, Flow AQ offers a four-day forecast specifically focused on air quality. "When you go outside, you want to know: Is the air quality going to be good? Is it going to be bad?" Mallia said. "These are the gaps that we want to fill." The application is designed to help users plan outdoor activities, particularly during times when air quality is expected to be poor. For instance, Mallia noted that upcoming forecasts indicate that air quality could be particularly unhealthy on Tuesday, with some improvement by Wednesday, although conditions are still expected to remain subpar. The app employs a color-coded system to indicate the severity of air quality, with varying levels of concern for different population segments. "If the app indicates moderate air quality, those who are sensitive to pollutants—such as individuals with asthma or other respiratory issues—should take precautions," he explained. As air quality worsens, moving into higher categories represented by orange, red, and dark red, the app advises that most population groups should limit outdoor activities. In addition to providing valuable data, Flow AQ also serves as an educational tool, helping users understand the implications of air quality on health. To gather data for the app, Mallia and his team utilize advanced forecasting techniques, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, run on a supercomputer. This complex process allows for a high degree of accuracy in predicting air quality fluctuations based on atmospheric physics. As air quality continues to be a pressing concern in Utah, experts are urging residents to take proactive measures this week. Jason Brown from Envision Utah suggests a range of actions to help mitigate emissions. "If you can turn off your car while waiting in the carpool line, avoid idling as much as possible. Taking TRAX or FrontRunner, carpooling, or working remotely can significantly reduce emissions from vehicles," he advised. With winter in full swing, the use of snowblowers is another area where residents can make a positive impact. Brown noted that these machines produce considerable emissions, and he encouraged residents to limit their use or consider switching to electric models or even opting for manual shoveling when possible. Flow AQ is currently available for free on the iPhone App Store, with plans for an Android version to be released in the near future. For those interested in further exploring air quality resources, HEAL Utah has a dedicated website where residents can access additional information and tools to monitor air quality in their region. As Utahns brace for the challenges of winter air quality, the release of Flow AQ marks a significant step towards empowering residents with the knowledge they need to safeguard their health and well-being. By harnessing the power of technology and science, Mallia and his team hope to foster a more informed and proactive community in the face of environmental challenges.