Fine dust alarm in Dresden: Current air quality is worrying!

Fine dust alarm in Dresden: Current air quality is worrying!

What is the air quality in Dresden? On July 23, 2025, the measuring station on Winckelmannstrasse determined that fine dust levels up to PM10 were recorded in the air. It is always important to keep an eye on the limit values: the maximum permitted value for fine dust is 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, which may be exceeded 35 times per year. But what does it actually look like? According to the surveys, air quality is measured based on three pollutants: particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and ozone, each with clearly defined limits.

Looking at the categories, the values ​​are classified as follows: “Very Poor” if the values ​​for nitrogen dioxide are above 200 μg/m³, for particulate matter above 100 μg/m³ or for ozone above 240 μg/m³. In the “Poor” category, the values ​​are between 101 and 200 μg/m³ for nitrogen dioxide, 51 and 100 μg/m³ for particulate matter and 181 to 240 μg/m³ for ozone. At “Moderate” the values ​​are lower, but sensitive people are also sensitized here.

Health risks from air pollutants

The air is full of invisible dangers. As the LANUK As described, pollutants such as fine dust PM10 and PM2.5, ultrafine particles PM0.1 and nitrogen dioxide can cause serious health problems. These include respiratory diseases, chronic cough and even cardiovascular diseases. Exposure to air pollutants is particularly dangerous for children because they have more sensitive lung function.

To better understand the dimensions: According to WHO guidelines, if the fine dust concentration increases by 10 µg/m³, the risk of death increases by 8 percent. Such figures are alarming and show how important it is to constantly monitor air quality and inform citizens.

Recommendations for the population

If air quality is poor, certain precautionary measures are required. If the values ​​​​are very poor, sensitive people in particular should avoid any physical exertion outdoors. If air quality is rated as “poor,” experts recommend avoiding strenuous activities. At moderate levels, health risks are less likely, but sensitive people should also act cautiously here.

One thing should not be forgotten: New Year's Eve fireworks contribute to fine dust pollution. Every year, around 2,050 tons of fine dust are released into the air, 75 percent of them on New Year's Eve alone. Although this is not considered significant compared to year-round exposure, weather conditions and inversion weather patterns can exacerbate the situation.

In view of the many challenges in the area of ​​air quality, it is advisable to regularly check the current values ​​and find out about the health effects of air pollutants. After all, it is in all of our interests to keep the air we breathe as clean as possible.

Stay healthy!