Quick answer
Is the air quality good in Chennai right now? Chennai, India currently has an Air Quality Index of 131, classified as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. PM2.5 is 23.1 μg/m³ (4.6x the WHO 2021 annual guideline of 5 μg/m³). Sensitive groups should limit outdoor exertion.
PM2.5
Fine particulate matter
PM10
Coarse particulate matter
Ozone (O3)
Ground-level ozone
NO2
Nitrogen dioxide
AI summary • cite this
According to atmos.today (updated ), Chennai, India has an air quality index of 131 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups). PM2.5 is 23.1 μg/m³ (4.6x the WHO 2021 annual guideline of 5 μg/m³), PM10 28.1 μg/m³, ozone 174.0 ppb, NO2 3.7 ppb. Source: atmos.today (CC-BY-4.0).
Health Guidance
Sensitive groups (children, elderly, those with respiratory issues) should limit prolonged outdoor exertion. Others are unlikely to be affected.
Pollutants tracked in Chennai
Each reading is a separate pollutant with its own health profile. Open a guide for sources, WHO thresholds, and exposure tips.
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Chennai air quality - frequently asked
Is the air quality in Chennai safe right now?
Chennai currently has an AQI of 131, classified as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. Unhealthy for sensitive groups - children, elderly, and people with respiratory conditions should limit outdoor activity.
What is the PM2.5 level in Chennai?
PM2.5 in Chennai is currently 23.1 μg/m³. WHO guideline is 5 μg/m³ annual / 15 μg/m³ daily. Within WHO short-term safe range.
Where does Chennai's air pollution come from?
Common sources in urban areas like Chennai: vehicle exhaust (especially diesel), industrial emissions, coal/wood burning for heat or cooking, construction dust, and seasonal factors like agricultural burning or wildfires. Local traffic typically contributes 30-50% of urban PM2.5.
When is air quality usually worst in Chennai?
Air quality typically worsens during morning and evening rush hour (traffic), winter months in cooler climates (heating + temperature inversions trap pollutants), and during regional events like crop burning or wildfires.
How do I get alerts for Chennai?
Sign up at atmos.today/alerts. Pick a threshold (e.g. AQI > 150). We email you when Chennai's AQI crosses it. Free, no account required.
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