High Levels of Particulate Matter Persist in Parts of Thuringia
Introduction
According to data from the Thuringian State Office for Environment, Mining, and Nature Conservation, fine particulate matter pollution remains high in parts of Thuringia. A measuring station in Erfurt recorded an exceedance of the fine particulate matter limit value in the PM2.5 size category. The air quality was classified as "very poor" in the Air Quality Index.
Other measuring stations in Erfurt, as well as in Weimar, Jena, Mühlhausen, Nordhausen, and Altenburg, registered poor values for the PM2.5 and PM10 categories. Poor fine particulate matter values had already been measured in parts of Thuringia on Wednesday.
Fine Particulate Matter and Health
Fine particulate matter is classified into groups according to the size of the particles: PM2.5 refers to particles up to a size of 2.5 micrometers, PM10 up to 10 micrometers, or thousandths of a millimeter. Fine particulate matter can enter the lungs through the nose and mouth and, depending on its size, can reach and damage the alveoli and bloodstream.
Causes of Elevated Fine Particulate Matter
A spokesperson for the State Office for Environment explained that higher levels of fine particulate matter are not unusual during this time of year. The main reasons are the lack of air movement and the increased emission of fine particulate matter in winter due to heating and traffic. In addition, a high-pressure area is currently forcing the polluted air into the valleys. Polluted air from Eastern Europe is also contributing to the poor values.
Forecast and Mitigation Measures
The State Office for Environment expects an improvement over the weekend due to forecasted changes in air movement. Those in Thuringia who want to get some fresh air before then can drive to the crest of the Thuringian Forest or other elevated areas, where the air quality is better according to the data.
Additional Notes
- PM2.5: Particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. It is associated with a range of health problems, including asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses.
- PM10: Particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less can irritate the lungs and throat, and may contribute to the development of chronic respiratory problems.
- Air Quality Index (AQI): The AQI is a measure of the level of air pollution in a given area. It is based on the concentration of five major pollutants: ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.
Conclusion
High levels of fine particulate matter remain a concern in parts of Thuringia. While the affected areas are expected to experience improved air quality over the weekend, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter.
