Johannesburg air quality · South Africa
Sensitive lungs will notice this air before anyone else does
US AQI 105 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups) in Johannesburg, from 6 official monitoring stations. Main pollutant: PM10.
Updated
Pollutants in Johannesburg
- PM2.5 · µg/m³29.21.9× WHO limit
- PM10 · µg/m³1623.6× WHO limit
Concentrations averaged across the city's stations. WHO multiples use the 2021 24-hour guidelines.
Is it safe outside in Johannesburg right now?
Children, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with heart or lung disease may feel effects. Most other people are unlikely to be affected.
Walking and commuting
Go aheadFine for most people; sensitive groups keep it shorter.
Running and jogging
LimitSensitive groups move indoors. Others take more breaks and shorten the run.
Cycling
Take carePrefer routes away from heavy traffic; sensitive groups ride shorter.
Children playing outside
Take careChildren with asthma should take breaks and keep reliever inhalers handy.
Older adults and heart or lung conditions
LimitReduce long or heavy exertion outdoors and keep medicines close.
Open windows
Take careVentilate briefly, ideally when the reading is lowest.
Mask outdoors
OptionalSensitive groups may wear an N95 or FFP2 mask for long trips.
Air purifier indoors
OptionalUseful for sensitive people, especially at night.
Based on the US EPA Air Quality Guide, applied to the current US AQI category. If you have symptoms, follow your doctor's advice.
What US AQI 101–150 means for your health →
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South Africa rankingJohannesburg air quality: common questions
What is the AQI in Johannesburg right now?
The US AQI in Johannesburg is 105 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups), based on 6 monitoring stations. The main pollutant is PM10.
Is it safe to go outside in Johannesburg today?
Sensitive groups should take it easy. Children, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with heart or lung disease may feel effects. Most other people are unlikely to be affected. For runners: Sensitive groups move indoors. Others take more breaks and shorten the run.
How does Johannesburg's PM2.5 compare with the WHO guideline?
PM2.5 is 29 µg/m³, about 1.9 times the World Health Organization's 24-hour guideline of 15 µg/m³.
Where does Johannesburg's air quality data come from?
From Government and research monitoring stations via OpenAQ and national networks, using 6 monitoring stations in and around the city. Good Air does not estimate or adjust these readings.
Source: Government and research monitoring stations via OpenAQ and national networks. Readings are published by the monitoring agency and may be revised.