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Current AQI by US ZIP Code

weather.airnow.current_zip
Read-onlyIdempotent

Get current Air Quality Index (AQI) for any US ZIP code. Returns PM2.5, ozone, AQI value and category (Good/Moderate/Unhealthy) from EPA AirNow. Enter a 5-digit ZIP and optional search radius.

Instructions

Current Air Quality Index (AQI) observations from EPA AirNow for any US ZIP code. Returns PM2.5, ozone, AQI value + category (Good/Moderate/Unhealthy/...). US Gov free

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
zipYesUS ZIP code — 5 digits (e.g. "10001" Manhattan, "90210" Beverly Hills, "60601" Chicago).
distanceNoSearch radius in miles around the ZIP centroid (default 25). If no monitor within radius, returns empty array.

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultNoTool response payload. Shape varies per tool — consult the tool description and inputSchema. May be an object, array, string, or number depending on the upstream provider response.
errorNoPresent only when the call failed. Includes error code, message, request_id, and any provider-specific extras.
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false, idempotentHint=true, openWorldHint=true. Description adds value by specifying return fields (PM2.5, ozone, AQI value + category) and behavior (empty array if no monitor within radius). No contradictions.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Two sentences, no fluff. Front-loaded with key info (what it returns, source, output fields) and includes a useful example.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

With annotations covering safety and idempotency, and an output schema existing (not shown but indicated), the description is complete enough. It covers purpose, parameters, output, and even mentions data source and cost.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema coverage is 100% with detailed descriptions for both parameters (zip: min/max length, format, examples; distance: min/max, default, behavior). Description adds no additional meaning beyond schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

Clearly states it returns current AQI observations by US ZIP code, listing specific pollutants (PM2.5, ozone), AQI value, and category. Distinguishes from sibling tools like forecast_zip and current_latlng.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Implied usage from name and description (current AQI by ZIP), but no explicit guidance on when to use vs alternatives like forecast_zip or current_latlng. No exclusions mentioned.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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