Is the air quality good in Jerusalem?
No, as of August 11, 2025, the air quality in Jerusalem, Israel is very unhealthy. The current AQI levels are far above normal, with PM2.5 at and PM10 dominating. This poses immediate risks like respiratory distress, aggravated heart conditions, and reduced lung function, especially for vulnerable groups.
Recommendations include staying indoors, sealing homes, using masks outdoors, and employing air purifiers to mitigate indoor pollution exposure.
For a more detailed look, see Jerusalem's air quality map.
Jerusalem, Israel ranked as the most polluted major city on August 11. Source: IQAir.
Why is there an air quality alert in Jerusalem?
The alert is due to critically high particulate matter levels penetrating lungs and bloodstream, increasing chances of strokes, heart attacks, and chronic illnesses.
Extreme heat and arid conditions hinder pollutant dispersal, amplifying hazards for extended outdoor exposure.
Hourly air quality forecast for Jerusalem, Israel on August 11. Source: IQAir.
Air quality map of Jerusalem, Israel on August 11. Source: IQAir.
What is causing poor air quality in Jerusalem?
Key causes include desert dust from nearby regions and North Africa, vehicular emissions from diesel traffic and buses, industrial activities, and fossil fuel combustion in power plants.
Urban growth and proximity to deserts exacerbate dust storms and ozone formation (1).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Health alerts advise limiting outdoor activities, particularly for sensitive individuals, but no evacuation orders are issued, as the pollution, though severe, does not require relocation.
How can I protect myself from poor air quality?
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.
