China Air Quality Alert

Is the air quality good in China?

As of October 29, 2025, air quality in northeastern, eastern and southeastern China remains poor, with major cities experiencing "unhealthy" to "very unhealthy" levels and dangerously high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

Several urban centers this afternoon (local time) have recorded AQI readings above 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2024 was 31 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 90, classified as “moderate". This level is nearly 6.2 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, making China one of the world’s 25 most polluted countries in 2024.

Air quality map of China and neighboring countries on Oct 29, 2025. Source IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China?

As of October 29, 2025, cities in China impacted by poor air quality include:

For a more detailed look, see China's air quality map.

Wuhan, China, ranked as the 8th most polluted, while Beijing ranked as the 3rd most polluted major city in the world on October 29, 2025. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in China?

Short-term improvements in air quality depend on favorable weather, as winds and rainfall can disperse pollutants within days. However, stagnant conditions and winter temperature inversions often trap smog from October through February, prolonging poor air quality.

Long-term relief will require stricter emission controls, cleaner energy adoption, and effective seasonal policies to prevent recurring winter pollution episodes.

What is causing poor air quality in China?

Winter air pollution in China mainly stems from increased emissions during the heating season and unfavorable weather conditions. Coal- and biomass-fired residential heating in northern regions release large amounts of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) (1). Industrial sectors such as power plants, steel, cement, and chemical facilities contribute additional pollutants, while open biomass and straw burning in rural areas further worsen air quality (2).

During winter, temperature inversions, shallow boundary layers, weak winds, and high humidity trap pollutants close to the ground and enhance secondary aerosol formation from SO₂, NOₓ, NH₃, and VOCs (3). Despite progress through clean-air policies, inconsistent enforcement and industrial relocation continue to pose challenges. Consequently, winter haze results from a combination of emissions, atmospheric chemistry, and regional transport (4).