Quick answer
Is the air quality good in Johannesburg right now? Johannesburg, South Africa currently has an Air Quality Index of 134, classified as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. PM2.5 is 43.4 μg/m³ (8.7x 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 ), Johannesburg, South Africa has an air quality index of 134 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups). PM2.5 is 43.4 μg/m³ (8.7x the WHO 2021 annual guideline of 5 μg/m³), PM10 43.8 μg/m³, ozone 75.0 ppb, NO2 37.6 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 Johannesburg
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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Compare Johannesburg air quality with
Johannesburg air quality - frequently asked
Is the air quality in Johannesburg safe right now?
Johannesburg currently has an AQI of 134, 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 Johannesburg?
PM2.5 in Johannesburg is currently 43.4 μg/m³. WHO guideline is 5 μg/m³ annual / 15 μg/m³ daily. Current level is 8.7x the WHO annual guideline.
Where does Johannesburg's air pollution come from?
Common sources in urban areas like Johannesburg: 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 Johannesburg?
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 Johannesburg?
Sign up at atmos.today/alerts. Pick a threshold (e.g. AQI > 150). We email you when Johannesburg's AQI crosses it. Free, no account required.
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