These cities are struggling with significant pollution issues. If you’re environmentally conscious, you might want to think twice before visiting.
1. Bakersfield, California
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Boomsma
Known for its poor air quality, Bakersfield frequently tops the list of most polluted cities in America.
2. Fresno, California
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Boomsma
Another California city plagued by smog and poor air quality, Fresno’s pollution levels are concerning.
3. Los Angeles, California
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Famous for its smog, LA has long struggled with air pollution. It’s a city of contrasts with beautiful beaches and dirty air.
4. Modesto, California
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Boomsma
Modesto’s air quality issues stem from both vehicle emissions and agricultural practices.
5. Fairbanks, Alaska
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pung
Surprisingly, Fairbanks suffers from severe winter pollution due to wood-burning stoves and temperature inversions.
6. Phoenix, Arizona
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Phoenix’s air quality suffers from high levels of particulate matter and ozone.
7. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Image Credit: Pexels / LaMont L. Johnson
Pittsburgh’s industrial past contributes to its ongoing air quality problems.
8. Houston, Texas
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Known for its refineries and petrochemical plants, Houston’s air quality is a major concern.
9. Salt Lake City, Utah
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Winter inversions trap pollutants in the valley, leading to poor air quality in Salt Lake City.
10. Cleveland, Ohio
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / f11photo
Cleveland’s industrial activities contribute to its significant pollution problems.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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