Alright, Glendale, you want to get out there? Today's looking pretty sweet for a run if you can dodge the ongoing urban chaos.
Why today is/isn't the day
- The Weather Gods are Smiling: 22.2°C and clear skies? That's about as good as it gets for not melting or freezing your ass off. Your joints will thank you for this one.
- Air's a Bit... Eh: While the pollen count is mercifully low (more on that below), our Air Quality Index is sitting at a moderate 68, with inhalable particulate matter (<10µm) as the main offender. So, if you've got sensitive lungs, maybe dial back the tempo a notch, especially around traffic.
- Construction Zone Dodgeball: Seriously, Glendale, pick a lane. Or rather, don't, because half of them are closed. There's a ton of sidewalk and road work, particularly in the Central Core area, making your usual routes a gauntlet. You might find yourself doing an impromptu street run on 58th Ave and Glenn Dr. thanks to sidewalk closures.
Pollen Breakdown
Good news for your sinuses, folks.
| Pollen Type | Level (Today) |
|---|---|
| Trees | None |
| Grass | None |
| Weeds | None |
Local Hazards & Hot Takes
Watch Your Step! Construction is Everywhere. The City of Glendale is really going for it with the "Central Core Sidewalk Infill Project" and general pavement improvements. This means detours, uneven surfaces, and potential closures, especially around the downtown area and various neighborhood streets like 61st Ave & Townley. Keep your head up and your eyes peeled. Don't be that person who twists an ankle because you were glued to your podcast.
AQI is Moderate – Listen to Your Lungs. An AQI of 68 with PM10 as the dominant pollutant means it's generally okay for most, but if you're prone to respiratory issues, you might feel it during prolonged or heavy exertion. Consider sticking to routes with less vehicle traffic if possible, especially on days like this where fine particulates are floating around.
Hydrate, Even When It's "Cool." Yeah, 22.2°C isn't exactly peak summer, but this is Arizona. The air is dry, and you're still sweating. Don't be a hero, carry water. Or at least plan your route past a Circle K.
Data grounded with AccuWeather, AirQuality.com, IQAir, Weather Underground, and City of Glendale news from February 26, 2026.