California

While renowned for its stunning landscapes and technological innovation, California also bears the dubious distinction of hosting some of the most polluted cities in the United States. Los Angeles, often compared to the post-apocalyptic scenes from Mad Max, is notorious for its smog-choked skies. Cities like Bakersfield, Modesto, Sacramento, and Fresno offer little respite, with air quality that often mirrors the concerns of their more famous counterpart.

This unfortunate reality serves as yet another reason to think twice about visiting Fresno and the Central Valley region. Addressing these pollution issues remains a critical challenge for California, as they impact not only the environment but also the health and well-being of its residents, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to improve air quality across the state.