If your lungs are made of cast iron and your sinuses are perpetually clear, then sure, hit the pavement today. Otherwise, maybe dial it back a notch.
- Today's weather in Mesquite is genuinely beautiful: clear skies and a mild 17.2°C (around 63°F) means you won't be battling the usual Texas extremes.
- But don't let that fool you. If you're an allergy sufferer, prepare for battle; pollen levels are screaming "High."
- That "moderate" AQI of 72? It's not just a number on an app. We're talking inhalable particulate matter, likely wafting in from those significant wildfires burning across the Texas Panhandle and parts of Oklahoma. Even if you don't see the smoke directly, those microscopic particles aren't doing your lungs any favors.
Look, I get it. The sun is out, it's not 100 degrees, and you’re itching to get some miles in around Paschall Park or anywhere else with some open space. The pleasant weather is a deceptive siren song today. While our immediate forecast shows clear conditions, the broader Texas landscape is a bit fiery. There are active, uncontained wildfires up in the Panhandle, like the Lavender Fire and the 8 Ball Fire, pushing plumes of smoke and dust across the region, fueled by dry conditions and sustained winds. That particulate matter in our "moderate" AQI isn't just an abstract concept; it's what you’ll be breathing deeply into your lungs. And trust me, as a physical therapist who deals with enough runner's knee, I can tell you damaged lungs are a far bigger problem than a tight IT band.
Consider that a few state parks are currently under burn bans, signaling the elevated fire danger, which contributes to regional air quality issues. If you’re pushing a hard workout, you’ll be inhaling more of whatever's floating around, taxing your respiratory system. Couple that with the "High" pollen count, and you've got a perfect storm for a miserable run, or worse, an asthma flare-up if you're susceptible.
Current Hazards
Air Quality & Pollen Tag-Team: That AQI of 72 with inhalable particulate matter is no joke, especially with widespread wildfires still active in the Panhandle. Add the "High" pollen count, and your respiratory system is in for a challenge. If you have asthma or allergies, seriously consider moving your workout indoors or sticking to very low intensity.
Hydration & Symptoms: With the mild temps, it’s easy to forget to hydrate, but your body is working harder to filter that air. Drink up! Also, listen to your body. If you feel any chest tightness, unusual coughing, or shortness of breath, cut your workout short. No PR is worth an ER visit.
Ongoing Construction Nuisance: While major projects like the F.P. Lucas Boulevard expansion are wrapping up, keep an eye out for local road work. The South Walker Street and Tripp Road construction is still causing traffic changes and could impact your usual routes. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re running near these areas.
Pollen Breakdown
| Pollen Type | Level |
|---|---|
| Overall | High |
| Trees | High |
| Grass | Moderate |
| Weeds | Low |
Data grounded with AccuWeather from February 26, 2026.