Thousands Advised to Stay Inside in Georgia, Alabama

Unhealthy PM2.5 air prompts stay-inside guidance for parts of Georgia and Alabama, including Columbus, according to the EPA.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Thousands of residents across parts of Georgia and Alabama have been urged to stay inside due to unhealthy levels of fine particle pollution (PM2.5) in the air, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its AirNow air quality monitoring system. The affected areas include the city of Columbus and nearby communities in Georgia, as well as towns and cities in eastern Alabama.

Why it matters

PM2.5 pollution is considered one of the most dangerous types of airborne pollution because the tiny particles can be inhaled deeply into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, worsening health conditions like asthma and triggering a range of respiratory symptoms. This advisory highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in maintaining healthy air quality.

The details

According to the EPA's AirNow map, areas in Georgia under 'unhealthy' air quality warnings include the city of Columbus and nearby communities like Buena Vista and Hamilton, as well as parts of Georgia State Route 185. In Alabama, the towns and cities of Auburn, Pittsview, Eufaula, and Hurtsboro have also received the same warning. The EPA is advising everyone in these affected areas to limit their exposure to outdoor air until conditions improve, with vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, and those with heart/lung conditions advised to avoid outdoor activities altogether.

  • The stay-inside advisory was issued on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 4:30 a.m. ET.

The players

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The U.S. federal agency responsible for protecting human health and the environment, including monitoring and communicating air quality through its AirNow system.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This air quality advisory highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in maintaining healthy air, especially when it comes to dangerous fine particle pollution that can have serious health impacts. It underscores the importance of robust air quality monitoring and public notification systems to help protect vulnerable populations.