Why did air quality worsen after New Year’s?

A temperature inversion trapped smoke and emissions near the ground overnight. Fireworks added fine particles to the air. Light winds limited mixing, so pollutants stayed put into the morning. As winds pick up and showers or warmer air mix the layers, air quality usually improves through the afternoon.

Will retail sales be hit today in Seattle and Houston?

We expect a modest morning dip in store visits, with a rebound later as air improves. Same-day pickup and delivery can cushion sales. Brief demand spikes for masks and air purifiers may offset softness. Overall, the effect should be local, short, and manageable for most operators.

How does a temperature inversion affect the air quality index?

An inversion suppresses vertical mixing, so pollutants build near the surface. That raises the air quality index from moderate to unhealthy or worse until winds return. Once mixing resumes, readings usually fall during the afternoon, lowering exposure and easing strain on sensitive groups.

Why is the air quality bad t in search trends today?

People are searching the phrase because Seattle and Houston saw a morning spike after New Year’s. Inversions and fireworks trapped particles, pushing AQI higher. Conditions are improving with mixing and showers, so the impact should be brief. Local forecasts and AQI maps give the best updates.

Global Market Insights

January 02: Air Quality Spikes in Seattle & Houston Signal Retail Risks

ByHuzaifa Zahoor January 2, 2026January 2, 2026

Many residents are asking why is the air quality bad t across Seattle and Houston this morning. A post–New Year temperature inversion trapped smoke and vehicle emissions, while fireworks added fine particles. Air quality index readings jumped from moderate to unhealthy, with brief hazardous pockets. Rain, mixing, and onshore flow are set to improve conditions later today. For retail investors, the impact looks short and local, but it can still affect foot traffic, last‑mile delivery, and sales of masks and air purifiers on January 02.