Elevated Fine Dust Pollution: Poor Air Quality in Northern Germany

As the air quality improves in southern Germany, northern regions are facing heightened levels of fine dust pollution. Current measurements indicate that many areas are significantly exceeding established safety limits.

Following a day of poor air quality across much of Germany, the situation has become particularly critical in the northern half of the country. According to a report from the Federal Environment Agency, areas in the northeast are experiencing the highest concentrations of fine particulate matter, notably PM2.5 and PM10, which have surpassed the allowable limit of 50 micrograms per cubic meter in several locations. This includes all eastern German states, as well as parts of Lower Saxony, northern North Rhine-Westphalia, northern Hesse, and sections of Schleswig-Holstein.

Fine particulate matter is categorized based on particle size; PM2.5 includes particles up to 2.5 micrometers, while PM10 encompasses those up to 10 micrometers. These particles can enter the lungs through inhalation and potentially affect the bloodstream, posing health risks. Meteorologists attribute the division in air quality across Germany to varying weather conditions. While the south is currently experiencing increased rainfall, which helps to clear the air, the northern regions are under high pressure with minimal wind, leading to stagnant air and persistent pollution.

Forecasts suggest that high levels of air pollution will continue into the weekend. The ongoing high-pressure system is causing air to be compressed from above, further limiting the exchange of air masses. However, there is a possibility that by the weekend, cleaner air from the North and Baltic Seas may provide some relief to the affected areas.

People with pre-existing health conditions, such as asthma, allergies, and respiratory illnesses, should be particularly cautious during these times of poor air quality and limit outdoor physical activities. Recognized sources of fine dust include vehicular traffic, combustion processes in power and heating plants, residential heating systems, industrial activities, and agricultural practices. In winter, emissions typically rise due to increased heating, particularly from wood-burning stoves, alongside higher traffic emissions.