Hanoi’s air quality worsens to very bad level

Air quality in the latest 24 hours in Hanoi hit the bad level in four areas, worsened to the very bad level in the remaining locations and saw no improvements, according to the Hanoi Agency of Environmental Protection (AEP).

Data: AEP. Graphic: Anh Kiet

On December 8 afternoon, the AEP said that Hanoi’s air quality index (AQI) measured at 10 monitoring stations in the city was in the range of from 114 to 181.

Compared to air quality a day earlier, Hanoi’s AQI did not improve, the index has increased significantly, with the highest readings recorded at Minh Khai (181), Hang Dau (180) and Pham Van Dong (177).

Other areas had AQI below 150 such as My Dinh, Tay Mo, Tan Mai. The area with the lowest reading was Kim Lien (114).

From last night to this morning, Hanoi’s air quality at monitoring stations constantly maintained at the very bad level (red) which heavily affects human health.

Early morning often sees the lowest reading during the day. At noon, when the sunshine is stronger, the AQI tends to decrease.

According to forecasts from the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecast, weather conditions will not change much in the coming days, thus, it is expected that Hanoi’s air quality will maintain at this level.

Data: AEP. Table: Anh Kiet

The AEP repeated the recommendations that Hanoi’s residents should follow air quality information where they are living and working before going out to prevent diseases.

Besides, sensitive groups including children, the elderly and people with respiratory diseases should limit their time outdoors.

In case of going out, people should use PM2.5 dust-proof face mask which meets the standard. In particular, pupils should not participate in outdoor activities.

When travelling on roads, people need to strictly follow traffic laws to reduce traffic congestion.

The Hanoi police should strengthen traffic regulation in some areas with high traffic density such as Pham Van Dong, Hang Dau, Minh Khai, among others.

In suburban areas, people need to reduce burning waste and agricultural by-products.

Information on the capital city’s air quality is continuously updated at the website: https://moitruongthudo.vn/ and https://airhanoi.hanoi.gov.vn/.