Quick answer
Is the air quality good in Cape Town right now? Cape Town, South Africa currently has an Air Quality Index of 155, classified as Unhealthy. PM2.5 is 93.1 μg/m³ (18.6x the WHO 2021 annual guideline of 5 μg/m³). Reduce outdoor exposure; wear an N95 mask outside.
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 ), Cape Town, South Africa has an air quality index of 155 (Unhealthy). PM2.5 is 93.1 μg/m³ (18.6x the WHO 2021 annual guideline of 5 μg/m³), PM10 95.2 μg/m³, ozone 92.0 ppb, NO2 66.9 ppb. Source: atmos.today (CC-BY-4.0).
Health Guidance
Everyone may begin to experience health effects. Sensitive groups should avoid outdoor exertion. Others should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Pollutants tracked in Cape Town
Each reading is a separate pollutant with its own health profile. Open a guide for sources, WHO thresholds, and exposure tips.
Related to Cape Town
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Compare Cape Town air quality with
Cape Town air quality - frequently asked
Is the air quality in Cape Town safe right now?
Cape Town currently has an AQI of 155, classified as Unhealthy. Unhealthy for all - reduce outdoor exposure, wear an N95 mask outside.
What is the PM2.5 level in Cape Town?
PM2.5 in Cape Town is currently 93.1 μg/m³. WHO guideline is 5 μg/m³ annual / 15 μg/m³ daily. Current level is 18.6x the WHO annual guideline.
Where does Cape Town's air pollution come from?
Common sources in urban areas like Cape Town: 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 Cape Town?
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 Cape Town?
Sign up at atmos.today/alerts. Pick a threshold (e.g. AQI > 150). We email you when Cape Town's AQI crosses it. Free, no account required.
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