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Find out more about the Wellington flash floods impacting communities across New Zealand’s capital region.

","content","What is the location of the flooding? As of April 20, 2026, severe flash flooding is impacting Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, situated on the southern coast of the North Island. (1) The flooding has been driven by intense rainfall that has overwhelmed urban drainage systems and caused rivers and stormwater channels to overflow into surrounding neighborhoods. (2) The flooding is concentrated in low-lying urban areas, flood-prone suburbs, and regions near stormwater systems and coastal zones, with widespread impacts across the Wellington metropolitan area. Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? The following cities and areas have been directly impacted by the flooding: Karori Kingston Lower Hutt Mornington Newtown Stokes Valley Wellington Whanganui District Floodwaters have impacted residential homes, roads, and infrastructure across these areas, with particularly severe impacts in southern and low-lying suburbs. (3) What is the current containment status of the flooding? As of April 20, 2026, the flooding is partially contained, with water levels receding in some areas while ongoing risks remain due to continued rainfall and saturated ground conditions. (4) Emergency crews are actively engaged in clean-up operations, debris removal, and response efforts. However, additional storms and heavy rain forecasts continue to pose a threat of further flooding. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities have issued evacuation advisories for residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas, urging them to relocate to safer locations if conditions worsen and to avoid all non-essential travel. (5) Emergency shelters have been set up, including support services coordinated by the Wellington City Mission, to assist displaced residents. Officials have also warned the public not to walk or drive through floodwaters due to the risk of strong currents, hidden debris, and rapidly changing conditions. Emergency alerts remain in place as severe weather continues to pose risks, including further flooding and landslides. Emergency services have responded to a high number of incidents across the region, and residents are advised to stay informed through official updates and be prepared to act quickly if the situation escalates. How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","contentHtml","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of April 20, 2026, severe flash flooding is impacting Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, situated on the southern coast of the North Island. (1)

The flooding has been driven by intense rainfall that has overwhelmed urban drainage systems and caused rivers and stormwater channels to overflow into surrounding neighborhoods. (2)

The flooding is concentrated in low-lying urban areas, flood-prone suburbs, and regions near stormwater systems and coastal zones, with widespread impacts across the Wellington metropolitan area.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The following cities and areas have been directly impacted by the flooding:

Karori
Kingston
Lower Hutt
Mornington
Newtown
Stokes Valley
Wellington
Whanganui District

Floodwaters have impacted residential homes, roads, and infrastructure across these areas, with particularly severe impacts in southern and low-lying suburbs. (3)

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of April 20, 2026, the flooding is partially contained, with water levels receding in some areas while ongoing risks remain due to continued rainfall and saturated ground conditions. (4)

Emergency crews are actively engaged in clean-up operations, debris removal, and response efforts. However, additional storms and heavy rain forecasts continue to pose a threat of further flooding.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities have issued evacuation advisories for residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas, urging them to relocate to safer locations if conditions worsen and to avoid all non-essential travel. (5)

Emergency shelters have been set up, including support services coordinated by the Wellington City Mission, to assist displaced residents.

Officials have also warned the public not to walk or drive through floodwaters due to the risk of strong currents, hidden debris, and rapidly changing conditions.

Emergency alerts remain in place as severe weather continues to pose risks, including further flooding and landslides. Emergency services have responded to a high number of incidents across the region, and residents are advised to stay informed through official updates and be prepared to act quickly if the situation escalates.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-wellington-new-zealand-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1001114567030","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-wellington-new-zealand-flooding","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2026-04-20T11:03:45Z",[393,645,1157],"Molds","Indoor Air Quality Alert: Wellington, New Zealand Flooding","image",{"_10":1161,"_246":1162,"_249":1163,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414611865974","Flooded road","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding1Desktop_7512fc80-2472-4b97-82a2-a913fe78f7b3.jpg?v=1776683873",2880,1500,{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1167,"_1125":1168,"_1141":1169,"_1143":1170,"_1145":1171,"_1147":1172,"_994":1173,"_10":1174,"_1151":1175,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1176,"_579":1177,"_543":1178,"_1159":1179},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.","

Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.

","What is the location of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1). Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3): River Oak, near Au Sable River Sherman, near Manistee River Evart, near Muskegon River Newaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams. What is the current containment status of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1).

Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3):

River Oak, near Au Sable River
Sherman, near Manistee River
\nEvart, near Muskegon River
\nNewaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River

Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1001085206902","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","2026-04-15T21:16:48Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Michigan Flooding",{"_10":1180,"_246":-5,"_249":1181,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414498685302","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding3Desktop_b703fdf0-20fa-4f5d-a7f5-87456f67d470.jpg?v=1776289010",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1183,"_1125":1184,"_1141":1185,"_1143":1186,"_1145":1187,"_1147":1188,"_994":1189,"_10":1190,"_1151":1191,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1192,"_579":1193,"_543":1194,"_1159":1195},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Find out more about Super Typhoon Sinlaku and its impact on the Mariana Islands.","

Find out more about Super Typhoon Sinlaku and its impact on the Mariana Islands.

","What is the name and location of the typhoon? As of April 13, 2026, Super Typhoon Sinlaku is an active and rapidly intensifying system in the western North Pacific Ocean, located southeast of Guam and moving toward the Northern Mariana Islands (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the typhoon? The typhoon is expected to significantly impact multiple areas across the Mariana Islands region, including: Northern Mariana Islands including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota Guam, a U.S. territory in the western Pacific (2) These regions are at risk of destructive winds, storm surge, flooding, and infrastructure damage as the typhoon approaches (3). What is the projected path and intensity of the typhoon? Super Typhoon Sinlaku is moving northwest and is expected to pass between Saipan and Tinian, tracking close to Guam, although a direct landfall is not certain (4). The typhoon has reached Category 5 strength and poses a serious threat. It has maximum sustained winds of up to 287 km/h or higher, with sustained wind speeds around 185 mph and gusts exceeding 220 mph. In addition to strong winds, the system may bring heavy rainfall exceeding 300 mm, along with dangerous storm surges. Sinlaku developed from thunderstorms in Micronesia and rapidly intensified due to warm ocean waters and low wind shear (5). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities have issued multiple warnings and taken preparedness measures across affected regions to protect residents from the approaching typhoon. Typhoon warnings are in place for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, where the most severe conditions are expected. Tropical storm warnings have been issued for Guam, where outer rainbands and strong winds are already beginning to impact the area. Officials have also declared a state of emergency in the Northern Mariana Islands to enable faster response and resource deployment. Emergency shelters have been opened in public buildings such as schools and community centers to accommodate residents, particularly those living in vulnerable or non-concrete housing. In total, seven shelters have been established as precautionary measures to ensure public safety. Residents are strongly advised to complete all necessary preparations, secure their homes, and follow instructions from local authorities, as life-threatening conditions including destructive winds, flooding, and storm surge are expected (6). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the name and location of the typhoon?

As of April 13, 2026, Super Typhoon Sinlaku is an active and rapidly intensifying system in the western North Pacific Ocean, located southeast of Guam and moving toward the Northern Mariana Islands (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the typhoon?

The typhoon is expected to significantly impact multiple areas across the Mariana Islands region, including:

Northern Mariana Islands including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota
Guam, a U.S. territory in the western Pacific (2)

These regions are at risk of destructive winds, storm surge, flooding, and infrastructure damage as the typhoon approaches (3).

What is the projected path and intensity of the typhoon?

Super Typhoon Sinlaku is moving northwest and is expected to pass between Saipan and Tinian, tracking close to Guam, although a direct landfall is not certain (4).

The typhoon has reached Category 5 strength and poses a serious threat. It has maximum sustained winds of up to 287 km/h or higher, with sustained wind speeds around 185 mph and gusts exceeding 220 mph.

In addition to strong winds, the system may bring heavy rainfall exceeding 300 mm, along with dangerous storm surges.

Sinlaku developed from thunderstorms in Micronesia and rapidly intensified due to warm ocean waters and low wind shear (5).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities have issued multiple warnings and taken preparedness measures across affected regions to protect residents from the approaching typhoon.

Typhoon warnings are in place for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, where the most severe conditions are expected. Tropical storm warnings have been issued for Guam, where outer rainbands and strong winds are already beginning to impact the area. Officials have also declared a state of emergency in the Northern Mariana Islands to enable faster response and resource deployment.

Emergency shelters have been opened in public buildings such as schools and community centers to accommodate residents, particularly those living in vulnerable or non-concrete housing. In total, seven shelters have been established as precautionary measures to ensure public safety.

Residents are strongly advised to complete all necessary preparations, secure their homes, and follow instructions from local authorities, as life-threatening conditions including destructive winds, flooding, and storm surge are expected (6).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-super-typhoon-sinlaku-mariana-islands-and-guam","gid://shopify/Article/1001064694134","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-super-typhoon-sinlaku-mariana-islands-and-guam","2026-04-13T12:23:46Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Super Typhoon Sinlaku, Mariana Islands and Guam",{"_10":1196,"_246":1197,"_249":1198,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414397497718","Flooded forest","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding4Desktop_bca728b0-0f2a-4ca6-bf6c-562e67413966.jpg?v=1776083574",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1200,"_1125":1201,"_1141":1202,"_1143":1203,"_1145":1204,"_1147":1205,"_994":1206,"_10":1207,"_1151":1208,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1209,"_579":1210,"_543":1211,"_1159":1212},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Learn about Cyclone Vaianu’s impact across New Zealand’s North Island and key safety updates for affected communities.","

Learn about Cyclone Vaianu’s impact across New Zealand’s North Island and key safety updates for affected communities.

","What is the name and location of the cyclone? As of April 11, 2026, Tropical Cyclone Vaianu is approaching New Zealand, specifically impacting the North Island. The cyclone is moving southward toward the country after forming in the Pacific region and is expected to bring severe weather conditions across multiple regions (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the cyclone? Several regions across New Zealand’s North Island are expected to be affected by Cyclone Vaianu. Authorities have issued warnings and emergency measures in multiple locations, including: Waikato region, including Coromandel Auckland, with risks of flooding and transport disruption Whakatāne District, including Ōhope and Thornton Hawke’s Bay, including Hastings coastal areas Northland, Bay of Plenty, and Rotorua Great Barrier Island and Coromandel Peninsula under severe wind warnings These areas are experiencing threats such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, coastal flooding, and landslides. What is the projected path and intensity of the cyclone? Cyclone Vaianu is forecast to make landfall across the North Island on Sunday, bringing intense and potentially damaging weather as it moves southeast. The cyclone is expected to generate wind speeds of up to 120 to 140 km/h, along with heavy rainfall that could lead to river flooding and landslides (2). The cyclone is projected to pass west of the Chatham Islands by Monday. The most severe conditions are likely to occur from late Sunday morning through the afternoon. The cyclone’s center is expected to track across regions such as Coromandel and Hawke’s Bay. However, hazardous weather conditions may begin earlier, even before the center of the cyclone reaches these areas (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Multiple evacuation orders and emergency alerts have been issued across affected regions as authorities prepare for the cyclone. Mandatory evacuations are in place in parts of Whakatāne, including coastal areas, while residents in beachfront properties in Hastings have also been ordered to leave. In addition, residents in Ōpōtiki and other low-lying coastal zones have been advised to evacuate immediately. Across the North Island, thousands of people have been instructed to leave their homes as a precaution. States of emergency have been declared in several regions, including Waikato, Northland, Whakatāne, and Hawke’s Bay. Emergency shelters and Civil Defence centers have been activated, and residents are advised to prepare for potential power outages, flooding, and possible delays in emergency response services (4). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the name and location of the cyclone?

As of April 11, 2026, Tropical Cyclone Vaianu is approaching New Zealand, specifically impacting the North Island.

The cyclone is moving southward toward the country after forming in the Pacific region and is expected to bring severe weather conditions across multiple regions (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the cyclone?

Several regions across New Zealand’s North Island are expected to be affected by Cyclone Vaianu.

Authorities have issued warnings and emergency measures in multiple locations, including:

\nWaikato region, including Coromandel
\nAuckland, with risks of flooding and transport disruption
Whakatāne District, including Ōhope and Thornton
\nHawke’s Bay, including Hastings coastal areas
\nNorthland, Bay of Plenty, and Rotorua\n
Great Barrier Island and Coromandel Peninsula under severe wind warnings

These areas are experiencing threats such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, coastal flooding, and landslides.

What is the projected path and intensity of the cyclone?

Cyclone Vaianu is forecast to make landfall across the North Island on Sunday, bringing intense and potentially damaging weather as it moves southeast. The cyclone is expected to generate wind speeds of up to 120 to 140 km/h, along with heavy rainfall that could lead to river flooding and landslides (2).

The cyclone is projected to pass west of the Chatham Islands by Monday. The most severe conditions are likely to occur from late Sunday morning through the afternoon.

The cyclone’s center is expected to track across regions such as Coromandel and Hawke’s Bay. However, hazardous weather conditions may begin earlier, even before the center of the cyclone reaches these areas (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Multiple evacuation orders and emergency alerts have been issued across affected regions as authorities prepare for the cyclone.

Mandatory evacuations are in place in parts of Whakatāne, including coastal areas, while residents in beachfront properties in Hastings have also been ordered to leave.

In addition, residents in Ōpōtiki and other low-lying coastal zones have been advised to evacuate immediately. Across the North Island, thousands of people have been instructed to leave their homes as a precaution.

States of emergency have been declared in several regions, including Waikato, Northland, Whakatāne, and Hawke’s Bay.

Emergency shelters and Civil Defence centers have been activated, and residents are advised to prepare for potential power outages, flooding, and possible delays in emergency response services (4).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-cyclone-vaianu-new-zealand","gid://shopify/Article/1001054437750","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-cyclone-vaianu-new-zealand","2026-04-11T13:54:04Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Tropical Cyclone Vaianu, New Zealand",{"_10":1213,"_246":1162,"_249":1214,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414356603254","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding1Desktop_7ff3731f-45d2-4cee-b708-b0f204ec43f7.jpg?v=1775915826",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1216,"_1125":1217,"_1141":1218,"_1143":1219,"_1145":1220,"_1147":1221,"_994":1222,"_10":1223,"_1151":1224,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1225,"_579":1226,"_543":1227,"_1159":1228},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Hawaii’s worst flooding in 20 years has heavily impacted several islands. Learn more about the flooding.","

Hawaii’s worst flooding in 20 years has heavily impacted several islands. Learn more about the flooding.

","What is the location of the flooding? As of April 9, 2026, Hawaii is experiencing renewed flooding threats from a multi-day Kona storm impacting the entire state. This ongoing flooding event follows devastating March floods and is driven by prolonged heavy rainfall, saturated ground conditions, and storm systems pulling moisture from the Pacific (1). The most impacted areas include Oahu’s North Shore, particularly Waialua and surrounding communities near the Kaukonahua Stream, where debris removal and flood prevention efforts are underway. Additional risks extend across Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai due to statewide flood watches and continued rainfall (2). Geographically, low-lying coastal regions, stream-adjacent communities, and previously flooded zones remain highly vulnerable, especially near waterways such as the Kaukonahua Stream and areas downstream of the Wahiawa Dam. Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Several islands and regions of Hawaii were impacted by the flooding, including: Haleʻiwa Honolulu Kahului Kāne‘ohe Kauai (island-wide risk) Kula Makaha Valley Mānoa Mokuleia Puna District (Big Island) Waialua Wahiawa Wai‘anae Flooding impacts include road closures, water entering homes, overflowing streams, and localized flash flooding across multiple islands (3). What is the current containment status of the flooding? As of April 9, 2026, flooding is not fully contained, and conditions remain dynamic as additional rainfall continues across Hawaii. Emergency crews are actively working to mitigate risks by clearing streams, storm drains, and debris in flood-prone areas such as Waialua and Oahu’s North Shore. Authorities report that while preventive measures are ongoing, saturated soil conditions significantly increase the likelihood of rapid flooding. Flash flood warnings and additional alerts are expected as storm bands persist through the week (4). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Flood watches are currently in effect for the entire state of Hawaii, with officials warning residents to be prepared for possible evacuations as conditions worsen. Emergency shelters have been activated across Oahu as a precaution. Designated shelter locations include: Wai‘anae District Park Mānoa Valley District Park Kāne‘ohe District Park George Fred Wright Wahiawa District Park Authorities advise residents to stay alert, avoid floodwaters, and follow official evacuation instructions if issued. Emergency response teams and Red Cross personnel are on standby to assist affected communities. How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of April 9, 2026, Hawaii is experiencing renewed flooding threats from a multi-day Kona storm impacting the entire state. This ongoing flooding event follows devastating March floods and is driven by prolonged heavy rainfall, saturated ground conditions, and storm systems pulling moisture from the Pacific (1).

The most impacted areas include Oahu’s North Shore, particularly Waialua and surrounding communities near the Kaukonahua Stream, where debris removal and flood prevention efforts are underway. Additional risks extend across Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai due to statewide flood watches and continued rainfall (2).

Geographically, low-lying coastal regions, stream-adjacent communities, and previously flooded zones remain highly vulnerable, especially near waterways such as the Kaukonahua Stream and areas downstream of the Wahiawa Dam.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Several islands and regions of Hawaii were impacted by the flooding, including:

Haleʻiwa
Honolulu
Kahului
Kāne‘ohe
\nKauai (island-wide risk)
\nKula
\n
Makaha Valley
Mānoa
\nMokuleia
\n
Puna District (Big Island)
\nWaialua
\n
Wahiawa
Wai‘anae

Flooding impacts include road closures, water entering homes, overflowing streams, and localized flash flooding across multiple islands (3).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of April 9, 2026, flooding is not fully contained, and conditions remain dynamic as additional rainfall continues across Hawaii. Emergency crews are actively working to mitigate risks by clearing streams, storm drains, and debris in flood-prone areas such as Waialua and Oahu’s North Shore.

Authorities report that while preventive measures are ongoing, saturated soil conditions significantly increase the likelihood of rapid flooding. Flash flood warnings and additional alerts are expected as storm bands persist through the week (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Flood watches are currently in effect for the entire state of Hawaii, with officials warning residents to be prepared for possible evacuations as conditions worsen.

Emergency shelters have been activated across Oahu as a precaution. Designated shelter locations include:

Wai‘anae District Park
Mānoa Valley District Park
Kāne‘ohe District Park
George Fred Wright Wahiawa District Park

Authorities advise residents to stay alert, avoid floodwaters, and follow official evacuation instructions if issued. Emergency response teams and Red Cross personnel are on standby to assist affected communities.

\n\n

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-hawaii-usa-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1000874967414","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-hawaii-usa-flooding","2026-04-09T12:34:10Z",[862,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Hawaii, USA Flooding",{"_10":1229,"_246":1230,"_249":1231,"_251":1232,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414301094262","Flooded gas station","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding2Desktop_caa2b303-497c-4b87-8689-7419c3719205.jpg?v=1775740738",2800,{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1234,"_1125":1235,"_1141":1236,"_1143":1237,"_1145":1238,"_1147":1239,"_994":1240,"_10":1241,"_1151":1242,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1243,"_579":1244,"_543":1245,"_1159":1246},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Flash floods in southern Russia’s Dagestan region have caused fatalities, mass evacuations, and infrastructure damage. Learn about affected areas, response efforts, and ongoing alerts.","

Flash floods in southern Russia’s Dagestan region have caused fatalities, mass evacuations, and infrastructure damage. Learn about affected areas, response efforts, and ongoing alerts.

","What is the location of the flooding? Heavy rainfall since March 29, 2026, has triggered severe flash floods and landslides in southern Russia, particularly in the Republic of Dagestan in the North Caucasus. The capital Makhachkala has been hardest hit (1). A second wave of intense rain in early April worsened the situation, causing further inundation and infrastructure damage (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Flooding is concentrated in Dagestan, with Makhachkala worst affected, including partial collapse of a multi-story apartment building due to soil erosion. Surrounding districts, especially Derbent, and several villages have also been severely impacted. Over 460 homes have been flooded, with streets submerged and transport disrupted (3). What is the current containment status of the flooding? A state of emergency remains in effect. Emergency services have evacuated more than 5,000 people and are conducting ongoing rescue operations. Power has been cut to over 327,000 people in some areas (3). Rescue teams continue working amid risks of further rain, landslides, and mudflows. A criminal probe has been opened into the deaths (4). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Thousands of residents have been evacuated from flood zones, especially in Makhachkala and Derbent district. Authorities have declared a state of emergency and urge people to avoid low-lying areas, riverbanks, and flooded roads. Health officials warn against drinking tap water due to contamination risks. Residents are advised to follow official safety guidance (5). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

Heavy rainfall since March 29, 2026, has triggered severe flash floods and landslides in southern Russia, particularly in the Republic of Dagestan in the North Caucasus. The capital Makhachkala has been hardest hit (1).

A second wave of intense rain in early April worsened the situation, causing further inundation and infrastructure damage (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Flooding is concentrated in Dagestan, with Makhachkala worst affected, including partial collapse of a multi-story apartment building due to soil erosion.

Surrounding districts, especially Derbent, and several villages have also been severely impacted. Over 460 homes have been flooded, with streets submerged and transport disrupted (3).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

A state of emergency remains in effect. Emergency services have evacuated more than 5,000 people and are conducting ongoing rescue operations. Power has been cut to over 327,000 people in some areas (3).

Rescue teams continue working amid risks of further rain, landslides, and mudflows. A criminal probe has been opened into the deaths (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Thousands of residents have been evacuated from flood zones, especially in Makhachkala and Derbent district. Authorities have declared a state of emergency and urge people to avoid low-lying areas, riverbanks, and flooded roads.

Health officials warn against drinking tap water due to contamination risks. Residents are advised to follow official safety guidance (5).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-dagestan-russia-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1000934998390","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-dagestan-russia-flooding","2026-04-09T08:47:23Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Dagestan, Russia Flooding",{"_10":1247,"_246":-5,"_249":1248,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414290346358","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding4Desktop_f15b0e56-3a33-41ea-ad73-cca8b8c140c9.jpg?v=1775724449",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1250,"_1125":1251,"_1141":1252,"_1143":1253,"_1145":1254,"_1147":1255,"_994":1256,"_10":1257,"_1151":1258,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1259,"_579":1260,"_543":1261,"_1159":1262},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Heavy rains and flash floods have struck Pakistan and Afghanistan, causing fatalities, infrastructure damage, and widespread disruption. Learn more about affected areas, response efforts, and alerts.","

Heavy rains and flash floods have struck Pakistan and Afghanistan, causing fatalities, infrastructure damage, and widespread disruption. Learn more about affected areas, response efforts, and alerts.

","What is the location of the flooding? Intense rainfall since the start of April 2026 has triggered flash floods and landslides across Pakistan and Afghanistan. In Pakistan, the worst impacts are reported in Balochistan and northern regions, while in Afghanistan, widespread flooding has affected multiple provinces. Persistent storms and unstable weather conditions continue to elevate flood risks across both countries (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? In Pakistan, affected districts include: Balochistan: Chaman, Gwadar, Kalat, Kech, Khuzdar, Lasbela, Mastung, Quetta and Zhob. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Chitral, Dera Ismail Khan, Dir, Peshawar and Swat are severely affected. Punjab: Rawalpindi. In Afghanistan, flooding impacts include: Central provinces: Daikundi and Maidan Wardak. Eastern provinces: Laghman, Nangarhar and Parwan. Northern provinces: Badakhshan, Faryab and Samangan. Southern province: Kandahar. What is the current containment status of the flooding? Containment remains difficult with ongoing rains. Pakistan's PDMA and NDMA have deployed emergency teams on round-the-clock alert with helicopters, boats, and rescue equipment (2). Afghan authorities have distributed emergency cash assistance and pre-positioned aid in provincial warehouses. The Ministry of Public Works reports several key highways remain closed in northern provinces. Both countries' disaster management authorities continue coordinated rescue and relief operations as rainfall persists (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? In Pakistan, NDMA has issued warnings for flash floods, GLOFs, and landslides in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from April 1-10. In Balochistan, alerts for hill torrents and seasonal streams are active. Afghan authorities warn of continued risks from heavy rain. Residents are urged to avoid low-lying areas and follow emergency advisories (4). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

Intense rainfall since the start of April 2026 has triggered flash floods and landslides across Pakistan and Afghanistan. In Pakistan, the worst impacts are reported in Balochistan and northern regions, while in Afghanistan, widespread flooding has affected multiple provinces.

Persistent storms and unstable weather conditions continue to elevate flood risks across both countries (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

In Pakistan, affected districts include:

Balochistan: Chaman, Gwadar, Kalat, Kech, Khuzdar, Lasbela, Mastung, Quetta and Zhob.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Chitral, Dera Ismail Khan, Dir, Peshawar and Swat are severely affected.

Punjab: Rawalpindi.

In Afghanistan, flooding impacts include:

Central provinces: Daikundi and Maidan Wardak.
Eastern provinces: Laghman, Nangarhar and Parwan.
Northern provinces: Badakhshan, Faryab and Samangan.
Southern province: Kandahar.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Containment remains difficult with ongoing rains. Pakistan's PDMA and NDMA have deployed emergency teams on round-the-clock alert with helicopters, boats, and rescue equipment (2).

Afghan authorities have distributed emergency cash assistance and pre-positioned aid in provincial warehouses. The Ministry of Public Works reports several key highways remain closed in northern provinces. Both countries' disaster management authorities continue coordinated rescue and relief operations as rainfall persists (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

In Pakistan, NDMA has issued warnings for flash floods, GLOFs, and landslides in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from April 1-10.

In Balochistan, alerts for hill torrents and seasonal streams are active. Afghan authorities warn of continued risks from heavy rain. Residents are urged to avoid low-lying areas and follow emergency advisories (4).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-pakistan-and-afghanistan-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1000975663478","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-pakistan-and-afghanistan-flooding","2026-04-08T04:04:17Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Pakistan and Afghanistan Flooding",{"_10":1263,"_246":-5,"_249":1264,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414244372854","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding1Desktop_76daeaf0-aedc-4ab6-be59-3484f6707436.jpg?v=1775621068",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1266,"_1125":1267,"_1141":1268,"_1143":1269,"_1145":1270,"_1147":1271,"_994":1272,"_10":1273,"_1151":1274,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1275,"_579":1276,"_543":1277,"_1159":1278},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Heavy rainstorms have triggered flash floods across parts of the Middle East, disrupting transport and daily life. Learn more about affected areas, response efforts, and ongoing alerts.","

Heavy rainstorms have triggered flash floods across parts of the Middle East, disrupting transport and daily life. Learn more about affected areas, response efforts, and ongoing alerts.

","What is the location of the flooding? As of March 27, 2026, intense rainfall and thunderstorms have triggered widespread flooding across parts of the Middle East, particularly the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman. Sudden downpours led to flash floods in urban and low-lying areas, with storm systems bringing lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain that overwhelmed drainage infrastructure (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Flooding has impacted several key cities and regions across the Gulf: UAE: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah. Oman: Musandam. Roads, residential areas, and highways have been inundated, while airports and transport networks faced delays and disruptions (2). What is the current containment status of the flooding? Managing the flooding remains challenging as intermittent storms continue across the region. Emergency services are responding to flooded roads, stranded vehicles, and affected communities. While waters have begun receding in some areas, additional rainfall and unstable weather conditions are prolonging disruption and slowing recovery efforts (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities have issued weather warnings and advisories across affected regions, urging residents to avoid flood-prone areas and unnecessary travel. While large-scale evacuations have not been widely reported, emergency alerts remain active, and residents are advised to follow official guidance as storm conditions persist (4). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of March 27, 2026, intense rainfall and thunderstorms have triggered widespread flooding across parts of the Middle East, particularly the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman. Sudden downpours led to flash floods in urban and low-lying areas, with storm systems bringing lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain that overwhelmed drainage infrastructure (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Flooding has impacted several key cities and regions across the Gulf:

UAE: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah.
Oman: Musandam.

Roads, residential areas, and highways have been inundated, while airports and transport networks faced delays and disruptions (2).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Managing the flooding remains challenging as intermittent storms continue across the region. Emergency services are responding to flooded roads, stranded vehicles, and affected communities. While waters have begun receding in some areas, additional rainfall and unstable weather conditions are prolonging disruption and slowing recovery efforts (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities have issued weather warnings and advisories across affected regions, urging residents to avoid flood-prone areas and unnecessary travel. While large-scale evacuations have not been widely reported, emergency alerts remain active, and residents are advised to follow official guidance as storm conditions persist (4).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-middle-east-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1000913928566","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-middle-east-flooding","2026-03-27T10:55:41Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Middle East Flooding",{"_10":1279,"_246":-5,"_249":1280,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/413901521270","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding3Desktop_e2b84880-59e8-477e-9114-3715e5fcb02e.jpg?v=1774608945",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1282,"_1125":1283,"_1141":1284,"_1143":1285,"_1145":1286,"_1147":1287,"_994":1288,"_10":1289,"_1151":1290,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1291,"_579":1292,"_543":1293,"_1159":1294},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Find out more about Tropical Cyclone Narelle and its impact across Queensland and Northern Australia.","

Find out more about Tropical Cyclone Narelle and its impact across Queensland and Northern Australia.

","What is the name and location of the cyclone? As of March 26, 2026, Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is impacting Western Australia after previously moving across Queensland and the Northern Territory. (1) The cyclone is currently located off the Pilbara coast near Karratha and Exmouth, bringing destructive weather conditions as it tracks along the western coastline. (2) Which cities or areas are affected by the cyclone? The cyclone is affecting a wide range of coastal and inland communities across Western Australia, particularly in the Pilbara and Gascoyne regions: Port Hedland Karratha Dampier Exmouth Onslow Coral Bay Carnarvon Denham Kalbarri Geraldton Impacts are also expected to extend further south toward Perth, with heavy rainfall and flooding risks affecting broader regions. What is the projected path and intensity of the cyclone? Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is currently a category 4 system and may intensify further, with a chance of reaching category 5 strength before landfall. (3) The system is moving southwest along the Pilbara coast and is forecast to pass near Exmouth before turning south and making landfall along the Gascoyne coast, most likely near Denham between Friday evening and Saturday morning. (4) After landfall, the cyclone is expected to weaken as it tracks inland, though it will continue to produce damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding across large parts of Western Australia. Wind map of Tropical Cyclone Narelle on March 26, 2026. Source: IQAir. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities have issued evacuation warnings and emergency alerts across several high-risk areas in Western Australia. Residents in Exmouth and surrounding areas have been urged to evacuate if their homes are not cyclone-rated. Evacuation centers have been established, including facilities at Exmouth Shire Hall, to support those relocating to safer locations. Tourists and visitors in towns such as Kalbarri and Northampton have been advised to leave immediately, as worsening conditions may make travel unsafe. Authorities have also warned that road closures and travel restrictions are likely as the cyclone intensifies. Additionally, flood watches have been issued across multiple catchments, with risks of river rises, flash flooding, and potential community isolation as heavy rainfall continues. (5) How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the name and location of the cyclone?

As of March 26, 2026, Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is impacting Western Australia after previously moving across Queensland and the Northern Territory. (1)

The cyclone is currently located off the Pilbara coast near Karratha and Exmouth, bringing destructive weather conditions as it tracks along the western coastline. (2)

Which cities or areas are affected by the cyclone?

The cyclone is affecting a wide range of coastal and inland communities across Western Australia, particularly in the Pilbara and Gascoyne regions:

Port Hedland
Karratha
Dampier
Exmouth
Onslow
Coral Bay
Carnarvon
Denham
Kalbarri
Geraldton

Impacts are also expected to extend further south toward Perth, with heavy rainfall and flooding risks affecting broader regions.

What is the projected path and intensity of the cyclone?

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle is currently a category 4 system and may intensify further, with a chance of reaching category 5 strength before landfall. (3)

The system is moving southwest along the Pilbara coast and is forecast to pass near Exmouth before turning south and making landfall along the Gascoyne coast, most likely near Denham between Friday evening and Saturday morning. (4)

After landfall, the cyclone is expected to weaken as it tracks inland, though it will continue to produce damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding across large parts of Western Australia.

$\"\"$ Wind map of Tropical Cyclone Narelle on March 26, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities have issued evacuation warnings and emergency alerts across several high-risk areas in Western Australia.

Residents in Exmouth and surrounding areas have been urged to evacuate if their homes are not cyclone-rated. Evacuation centers have been established, including facilities at Exmouth Shire Hall, to support those relocating to safer locations.

Tourists and visitors in towns such as Kalbarri and Northampton have been advised to leave immediately, as worsening conditions may make travel unsafe. Authorities have also warned that road closures and travel restrictions are likely as the cyclone intensifies.

Additionally, flood watches have been issued across multiple catchments, with risks of river rises, flash flooding, and potential community isolation as heavy rainfall continues. (5)

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-tropical-cyclone-narelle-australia","gid://shopify/Article/1000861499766","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-tropical-cyclone-narelle-australia","2026-03-26T10:10:43Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Tropical Cyclone Narelle, Australia",{"_10":1295,"_246":1296,"_249":1297,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/413870260598","A flooded backyard surrounded by dense forest.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding4Desktop_29496fc4-4276-48ab-9864-ce39b761385f.jpg?v=1774530099",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1299,"_1125":1300,"_1141":1301,"_1143":1302,"_1145":1303,"_1147":1304,"_994":1305,"_10":1306,"_1151":1307,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1308,"_579":1309,"_543":1310,"_1159":1311},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Widespread flooding continues across multiple regions of Southeast Australia after a slow-moving low-pressure system brought heavy rainfall.","

Widespread flooding continues across multiple regions of Southeast Australia after a slow-moving low-pressure system brought heavy rainfall.

","What is the location of the flooding? As of March 3, 2026, the Southeast Australia Flooding is impacting large parts of Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. The flooding is fueled by a record-breaking inland rainfall event, with some towns receiving a full year’s rain in just one week. The Bureau of Meteorology described the event as ‘once in a generation’ and compared the sudden shift from extreme heat (up to 50°C weeks earlier) to intense rainfall as ‘weather whiplash’ (1). Key rivers and catchments involved include the Lower Murrumbidgee River, Darling River, Cooper Creek, Warburton River, and multiple Victorian catchments such as the Avoca, Loddon, Campaspe and Wimmera systems (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? The following areas have been directly or indirectly impacted by flooding: South Australia: Adelaide, Eurelia (where a fatal flash-flooding incident occurred), Yunta (126.8mm in a single day), Ceduna (75mm), Marree (136mm), Innamincka New South Wales: Balranald, Broken Hill, Deniliquin, Hay, Menindee, Wentworth Victoria: Bendigo, Cohuna, Horsham (126mm in 48 hours), Mildura (nearly 150mm in one week) Queensland: Birdsville, Camoola Park, Jundah, Longreach, Retreat, Stonehenge, Windorah Meteorologists describe the system as a ‘once-in-a-generation’ rainfall event, delivering the heaviest inland rain since 2011. Several desert towns experienced rainfall usually only seen in tropical cities like Darwin or Cairns (3). What is the current containment status of the flooding? As of March 3, 2026, the rainfall has intensified, with severe weather warnings expanded across SA, NSW, and Victoria (4). Flash flooding has become more widespread due to saturated soil and 40–100mm six-hour rainfall bursts. Multiple regions are now experiencing their wettest days on record, pushing several river systems toward major flood levels (5). Victoria continues to experience minor to moderate flooding, with rainfall maintaining elevated river levels across central, northwest and southwest catchments (6). Far western New South Wales is facing localized flooding, with wet catchments responding rapidly to new rainfall and some communities at risk of isolation (7). South Australia is seeing easing conditions around Innamincka, but renewed river level increases are occurring along the Warburton River and across eastern districts where heavy rainfall continues (8). Queensland is experiencing moderate to major flooding along the Thomson River, Barcoo River and Cooper Creek, with peak flows moving downstream through affected areas. Authorities continue to refine flood forecasts and closely monitor river gauges across all impacted regions. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Although mandatory evacuations remain limited, emergency services are seeing a sharp increase in flood-related incidents. Victoria has recorded 392 SES requests, mostly for flooding, fallen trees and property damage. 176 of these callouts occurred in the past 24 hours. Several vehicles have been trapped in rising water, including a truck stranded on the Barrier Highway. South Australia and New South Wales warn that flash flooding may become life-threatening, especially in outback areas where water can rise quickly (9). SA continues to issue flood watches and severe weather warnings for heavy rain, flash flooding and dangerous road conditions. Communities in far-western NSW are under advisories due to the risk of isolation and limited road access. Queensland authorities urge residents near Longreach, Jundah, Stonehenge and Windorah to avoid flooded roads as river levels continue to rise (10). Victoria also maintains riverine flood watches across central, northwest and southwest regions, advising the public to stay informed and avoid floodwaters (11). Across all affected states, residents are urged to stay alert, avoid entering floodwater and follow official emergency instructions. How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of March 3, 2026, the Southeast Australia Flooding is impacting large parts of Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland.

The flooding is fueled by a record-breaking inland rainfall event, with some towns receiving a full year’s rain in just one week. The Bureau of Meteorology described the event as ‘once in a generation’ and compared the sudden shift from extreme heat (up to 50°C weeks earlier) to intense rainfall as ‘weather whiplash’ (1).

Key rivers and catchments involved include the Lower Murrumbidgee River, Darling River, Cooper Creek, Warburton River, and multiple Victorian catchments such as the Avoca, Loddon, Campaspe and Wimmera systems (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The following areas have been directly or indirectly impacted by flooding:

South Australia: Adelaide, Eurelia (where a fatal flash-flooding incident occurred), Yunta (126.8mm in a single day), Ceduna (75mm), Marree (136mm), Innamincka
New South Wales: Balranald, Broken Hill, Deniliquin, Hay, Menindee, Wentworth
\n
Victoria: Bendigo, Cohuna, Horsham (126mm in 48 hours), Mildura (nearly 150mm in one week)
\n
Queensland: Birdsville, Camoola Park, Jundah, Longreach, Retreat, Stonehenge, Windorah

Meteorologists describe the system as a ‘once-in-a-generation’ rainfall event, delivering the heaviest inland rain since 2011. Several desert towns experienced rainfall usually only seen in tropical cities like Darwin or Cairns (3).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of March 3, 2026, the rainfall has intensified, with severe weather warnings expanded across SA, NSW, and Victoria (4).

Flash flooding has become more widespread due to saturated soil and 40–100mm six-hour rainfall bursts. Multiple regions are now experiencing their wettest days on record, pushing several river systems toward major flood levels (5).

Victoria continues to experience minor to moderate flooding, with rainfall maintaining elevated river levels across central, northwest and southwest catchments (6).

Far western New South Wales is facing localized flooding, with wet catchments responding rapidly to new rainfall and some communities at risk of isolation (7).

South Australia is seeing easing conditions around Innamincka, but renewed river level increases are occurring along the Warburton River and across eastern districts where heavy rainfall continues (8).

Queensland is experiencing moderate to major flooding along the Thomson River, Barcoo River and Cooper Creek, with peak flows moving downstream through affected areas.

Authorities continue to refine flood forecasts and closely monitor river gauges across all impacted regions.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Although mandatory evacuations remain limited, emergency services are seeing a sharp increase in flood-related incidents.

Victoria has recorded 392 SES requests, mostly for flooding, fallen trees and property damage.\n
- 176 of these callouts occurred in the past 24 hours.
- Several vehicles have been trapped in rising water, including a truck stranded on the Barrier Highway.
\n
South Australia and New South Wales warn that flash flooding may become life-threatening, especially in outback areas where water can rise quickly (9).\n
- SA continues to issue flood watches and severe weather warnings for heavy rain, flash flooding and dangerous road conditions.
- Communities in far-western NSW are under advisories due to the risk of isolation and limited road access.
\n
Queensland authorities urge residents near Longreach, Jundah, Stonehenge and Windorah to avoid flooded roads as river levels continue to rise (10).
Victoria also maintains riverine flood watches across central, northwest and southwest regions, advising the public to stay informed and avoid floodwaters (11).

Across all affected states, residents are urged to stay alert, avoid entering floodwater and follow official emergency instructions.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-southeast-australia-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1000626815350","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-southeast-australia-flooding","2026-03-01T16:16:14Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Southeast Australia Flooding",{"_10":1312,"_246":1162,"_249":1313,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/413116531062","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/flooding_Desk.jpg?v=1772556219",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1315,"_1125":1316,"_1141":1317,"_1143":1318,"_1145":1319,"_1147":1320,"_994":1321,"_10":1322,"_1151":1323,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1324,"_579":1325,"_543":1326,"_1159":1327},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Record rainfall has unleashed deadly floods and landslides across southeastern Brazil, killing dozens and displacing communities. Learn about affected areas, response efforts, and ongoing alerts.","

Record rainfall has unleashed deadly floods and landslides across southeastern Brazil, killing dozens and displacing communities. Learn about affected areas, response efforts, and ongoing alerts.

","What is the location of the flooding? As of February 25, 2026, persistent torrential rainfall has impacted southeastern Brazil, particularly the states of Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, and Rio de Janeiro. Intense rainfall over several days caused rivers to overflow and hillsides to collapse, triggering widespread flooding and deadly landslides. The worst impacts are concentrated in mountainous and riverside areas where rain totals shattered previous records, overwhelming infrastructure and drainage systems (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Flooding and landslides have devastated multiple cities and towns in the region: Minas Gerais: Particularly in mountainous municipalities near river basins. Espírito Santo: Coastal and inland communities submerged by swollen rivers. Rio de Janeiro: Mountainous regions and hillside neighborhoods hit by landslides. In these areas, saturated slopes and fast-rising floodwaters have destroyed homes, blocked roads, and isolated communities. Emergency crews are navigating impassable highways and debris-strewn neighborhoods as rescue operations continue. What is the current containment status of the flooding? Rescue and response efforts are ongoing as floodwaters remain elevated in many river basins. Civil defense authorities have plucked survivors from rooftops and washed-out roads, while helicopters search for missing residents amid flooded valleys (2). Water levels in several rivers are still high, slowing recovery and containment efforts. Officials warn that additional rainfall may compound existing flood damage and hamper relief operations (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities have issued widespread flood and landslide warnings across southeastern Brazil as rain continues to fall intermittently. Evacuation orders have been enforced in the most dangerous flood zones, and shelters are operating to house displaced families (4). Residents are urged to stay away from swollen rivers, avoid unstable slopes, and follow guidance from Brazil’s civil defense agencies as updated advisories are issued. How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of February 25, 2026, persistent torrential rainfall has impacted southeastern Brazil, particularly the states of Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, and Rio de Janeiro. Intense rainfall over several days caused rivers to overflow and hillsides to collapse, triggering widespread flooding and deadly landslides.

The worst impacts are concentrated in mountainous and riverside areas where rain totals shattered previous records, overwhelming infrastructure and drainage systems (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Flooding and landslides have devastated multiple cities and towns in the region:

\nMinas Gerais: Particularly in mountainous municipalities near river basins.
\nEspírito Santo: Coastal and inland communities submerged by swollen rivers.
\nRio de Janeiro: Mountainous regions and hillside neighborhoods hit by landslides.

In these areas, saturated slopes and fast-rising floodwaters have destroyed homes, blocked roads, and isolated communities. Emergency crews are navigating impassable highways and debris-strewn neighborhoods as rescue operations continue.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Rescue and response efforts are ongoing as floodwaters remain elevated in many river basins. Civil defense authorities have plucked survivors from rooftops and washed-out roads, while helicopters search for missing residents amid flooded valleys (2).

Water levels in several rivers are still high, slowing recovery and containment efforts. Officials warn that additional rainfall may compound existing flood damage and hamper relief operations (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities have issued widespread flood and landslide warnings across southeastern Brazil as rain continues to fall intermittently. Evacuation orders have been enforced in the most dangerous flood zones, and shelters are operating to house displaced families (4).

Residents are urged to stay away from swollen rivers, avoid unstable slopes, and follow guidance from Brazil’s civil defense agencies as updated advisories are issued.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-brazil-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1000597389686","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-brazil-flooding","2026-02-25T06:26:19Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Brazil Flooding",{"_10":1328,"_246":-5,"_249":1329,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/412916154742","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/SD_Flood_Desktop_54ceaba5-bcd6-42da-b559-f1e33b810253.jpg?v=1772001332",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1331,"_1125":1332,"_1141":1333,"_1143":1334,"_1145":1335,"_1147":1336,"_994":1337,"_10":1338,"_1151":1339,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1340,"_579":1341,"_543":1342,"_1159":1343},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Heavy rains and deadly floods have struck southern and coastal Peru, displacing thousands and overwhelming infrastructure. Learn about impacted areas, response status, and alerts.","

Heavy rains and deadly floods have struck southern and coastal Peru, displacing thousands and overwhelming infrastructure. Learn about impacted areas, response status, and alerts.

","What is the location of the flooding? As of February 24, 2026, heavy, persistent rainfall linked to an atypical weather pattern has caused widespread flooding across southern Peru, particularly in the Arequipa region, and triggered flash floods that extended to parts of the central coast and Lima metropolitan area. Torrential storms have overwhelmed rivers and drainage systems, affecting both urban centers and rural valleys in the south and west of the country (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Flooding and related impacts have been reported across multiple Peruvian regions: Arequipa – severe flash flooding across valleys and river basins. Lima metropolitan area – heavy rainfall caused urban inundation and transport disruption. Moquegua and Tacna regions also saw intense downpours and flash floods. Smaller towns and coastal communities have faced sudden flood surges from swollen waterways. Across these areas, saturated hillsides and swollen rivers have disrupted roads, damaged homes, and prompted mass displacement. What is the current containment status of the flooding? Containment and emergency response efforts are underway, with national and local authorities mobilizing to assist affected communities. Floodwaters have repeatedly cut key highways, and several bridges were reported damaged or collapsed in torrent-hit valleys (2). Rescue teams have been deployed for evacuations and to deliver aid, though continued rain has slowed recovery operations. Officials expect conditions to gradually improve as the storm system weakens, but residual high water levels remain a risk (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Officials issued weather and flood alerts for the southern and coastal regions as heavy rain persisted. Residents in high-risk areas, particularly along riverbanks and floodplains, have been urged to evacuate and seek higher ground (4). Thousands sought shelter in local facilities as authorities prioritized the safety of vulnerable families. Continued monitoring and updated warnings remain essential as flash flood risks persist. How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of February 24, 2026, heavy, persistent rainfall linked to an atypical weather pattern has caused widespread flooding across southern Peru, particularly in the Arequipa region, and triggered flash floods that extended to parts of the central coast and Lima metropolitan area.

Torrential storms have overwhelmed rivers and drainage systems, affecting both urban centers and rural valleys in the south and west of the country (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Flooding and related impacts have been reported across multiple Peruvian regions:

\nArequipa – severe flash flooding across valleys and river basins.
\nLima metropolitan area – heavy rainfall caused urban inundation and transport disruption.
\nMoquegua and Tacna regions also saw intense downpours and flash floods.
Smaller towns and coastal communities have faced sudden flood surges from swollen waterways.

Across these areas, saturated hillsides and swollen rivers have disrupted roads, damaged homes, and prompted mass displacement.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Containment and emergency response efforts are underway, with national and local authorities mobilizing to assist affected communities. Floodwaters have repeatedly cut key highways, and several bridges were reported damaged or collapsed in torrent-hit valleys (2).

Rescue teams have been deployed for evacuations and to deliver aid, though continued rain has slowed recovery operations. Officials expect conditions to gradually improve as the storm system weakens, but residual high water levels remain a risk (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Officials issued weather and flood alerts for the southern and coastal regions as heavy rain persisted. Residents in high-risk areas, particularly along riverbanks and floodplains, have been urged to evacuate and seek higher ground (4).

Thousands sought shelter in local facilities as authorities prioritized the safety of vulnerable families. Continued monitoring and updated warnings remain essential as flash flood risks persist.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-peru-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1000590705014","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-peru-flooding","2026-02-24T07:43:22Z",[393,645,1157],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Peru Flooding",{"_10":1344,"_246":-5,"_249":1345,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/412889612662","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Seoul_Flooding_Desk_845b596f-82ed-4489-b5e3-8818f2d7aeea.jpg?v=1771919652","pageInfo",{"_1348":45,"_1349":55,"_1350":1351,"_1352":1353},"hasPreviousPage","hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjoxMDAwNTkwNzA1MDE0LCJsYXN0X3ZhbHVlIjoxNzcxOTE5MDAyMDAwLCJvZmZzZXQiOjExfQ==","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjoxMDAxMTE0NTY3MDMwLCJsYXN0X3ZhbHVlIjoxNzc2NjgzMDI1MDAwLCJvZmZzZXQiOjB9","selectedTag",{"_543":1356,"_992":60,"_249":996,"_997":1357},"IQAir News - Molds",{"_999":1000,"_1001":1358,"_12":1356,"_992":60,"_249":996},"Blog","categorizedArticles",{"_1361":1362,"_1401":1402,"_1504":1505,"_1571":1572,"_1642":1643},"featured",[1363,1382],{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1364,"_1125":1365,"_1141":1366,"_1143":1367,"_1145":1368,"_1147":1369,"_994":1370,"_10":1371,"_1151":1372,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1373,"_579":1374,"_543":1376,"_1159":1377},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Learn how much electricity an air purifier uses, what affects energy consumption, and how to keep indoor air clean efficiently.","

Learn how much electricity an air purifier uses, what affects energy consumption, and how to keep indoor air clean efficiently.

","Many people assume that running an air purifier all day must use a lot of electricity. After all, it is an appliance designed to run for hours at a time—sometimes around the clock. But in most cases, air purifiers use surprisingly little power, especially compared to the appliances households already use every day. Even when operating continuously, a well-designed air purifier typically uses far less electricity than a refrigerator, washing machine, or toaster (1)(2)(3). That makes energy use less of a barrier than many people expect. A 50-watt air purifier running 24/7 uses about 1.2 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per day, or roughly 438 kWh per year. At an electricity rate of about $0.17 per kWh, that comes out to less than $75 annually. Many efficient models use even less power on lower settings. For example, IQAir’s Atem X air purifier uses between 6 and 86 watts depending on fan speed, while the Atem Earth can use as little as 4 watts on a low setting. In other words, the cost of continuous air cleaning is often modest—especially when the unit is used thoughtfully and matched to the space. In many homes, the bigger misconception is not that air purifiers use no electricity, but that running them continuously must be expensive. In practice, their energy demand is often far lower than people expect. What affects how much electricity an air purifier uses Not every air purifier uses the same amount of electricity all the time. Actual energy use depends on a few practical factors: fan speed, room conditions, how often the purifier runs, and whether the unit adjusts automatically to the air. In general, fan speed has the biggest impact. Lower speeds use less electricity and are often well suited for overnight or background use. Medium settings tend to offer a good balance between cleaning performance and energy efficiency for everyday operation. High or maximum speeds use more electricity, but they are usually intended for shorter periods—such as during wildfire smoke events, cooking pollution, or high-allergen days. Auto mode can also improve efficiency. When an air purifier uses sensors to respond to real-time air quality, it can increase airflow when pollution rises and reduce it when the air is cleaner. That helps avoid running at a high setting when it is not needed. Proper sizing and maintenance matter too. A purifier that is appropriately sized for the room can clean the air more efficiently than an undersized unit working too hard to keep up. Clean, properly maintained filters also help the system operate as intended. Replacing filters on time supports both cleaning performance and efficient operation. How air purifiers compare with other household appliances One of the clearest ways to understand air purifier electricity use is to compare it with appliances households already run every day. That comparison helps separate the idea of continuous operation from the reality of relatively low wattage. Air purifiers are typically among the least energy-intensive appliances in a home. A refrigerator runs continuously and generally uses far more electricity over the course of a year. Washing machines draw hundreds of watts per cycle. Even a toaster can use far more power during a few minutes of use than an air purifier uses in an hour on a lower setting. That comparison helps put the concern in perspective: an air purifier may run for long periods, but it usually does so at relatively low wattage. Continuous use sounds energy-intensive, yet in practice the electrical demand is often modest. For households looking to reduce both indoor air pollution and unnecessary energy use, efficiency features can make a difference. ENERGY STAR-certified air purifiers are designed to meet stricter efficiency criteria, and smart operating modes can help reduce unnecessary power consumption without sacrificing day-to-day air cleaning. How to keep air cleaning efficient For most households, efficient air cleaning does not mean running an air purifier less. It means using the right settings, the right size unit, and the right maintenance habits to keep performance high and energy use modest. A few simple habits can help: Use auto mode when available so the purifier responds to changing air conditions automatically. Match the air purifier to the size of the room so it can clean effectively without overworking. Use higher fan speeds strategically during smoke events, cooking, or other short-term pollution spikes. Replace filters on time so airflow and performance remain consistent. Keep doors and windows closed during high-pollution events to reduce the amount of outdoor pollution entering the space. The goal is not simply to use less electricity. It is to maintain cleaner indoor air as efficiently and consistently as possible. Frequently Asked Questions How much does it cost to run an air purifier 24/7? That depends on the purifier’s wattage, fan speed, and local electricity rates. But in many cases, the cost is relatively low. A 50-watt air purifier running continuously uses about 1.2 kWh per day, which typically translates to only a few dollars per month. Will an air purifier significantly increase my electricity bill? Usually not. Most air purifiers use far less electricity than major household appliances such as refrigerators, dryers, or HVAC systems. Even with continuous use, the added cost is often modest. Is auto mode more energy-efficient? In many cases, yes. Auto mode helps a purifier respond to changing air conditions instead of running at a high setting all the time. That can reduce unnecessary energy use while still maintaining cleaner indoor air. Conclusion Air purifiers generally use far less electricity than many people expect. Even when they run for long periods, their energy use is often modest compared with other common household appliances. What matters most is not simply whether an air purifier is on, but how efficiently it operates. Fan speed, auto mode, room size, and filter maintenance all influence electricity use over time. For many households, that makes continuous air cleaning a practical and energy-efficient choice. With an efficient purifier, the right settings, and timely filter replacement, it is possible to support cleaner indoor air without adding much to monthly electricity costs.","

Many people assume that running an air purifier all day must use a lot of electricity. After all, it is an appliance designed to run for hours at a time—sometimes around the clock.

But in most cases, air purifiers use surprisingly little power, especially compared to the appliances households already use every day. Even when operating continuously, a well-designed air purifier typically uses far less electricity than a refrigerator, washing machine, or toaster (1)(2)(3).

That makes energy use less of a barrier than many people expect. A 50-watt air purifier running 24/7 uses about 1.2 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per day, or roughly 438 kWh per year. At an electricity rate of about $0.17 per kWh, that comes out to less than $75 annually. Many efficient models use even less power on lower settings.

For example, IQAir’s Atem X air purifier uses between 6 and 86 watts depending on fan speed, while the Atem Earth can use as little as 4 watts on a low setting.

In other words, the cost of continuous air cleaning is often modest—especially when the unit is used thoughtfully and matched to the space. In many homes, the bigger misconception is not that air purifiers use no electricity, but that running them continuously must be expensive. In practice, their energy demand is often far lower than people expect.

What affects how much electricity an air purifier uses

Not every air purifier uses the same amount of electricity all the time. Actual energy use depends on a few practical factors: fan speed, room conditions, how often the purifier runs, and whether the unit adjusts automatically to the air.

In general, fan speed has the biggest impact. Lower speeds use less electricity and are often well suited for overnight or background use. Medium settings tend to offer a good balance between cleaning performance and energy efficiency for everyday operation. High or maximum speeds use more electricity, but they are usually intended for shorter periods—such as during wildfire smoke events, cooking pollution, or high-allergen days.

Auto mode can also improve efficiency. When an air purifier uses sensors to respond to real-time air quality, it can increase airflow when pollution rises and reduce it when the air is cleaner. That helps avoid running at a high setting when it is not needed.

Proper sizing and maintenance matter too. A purifier that is appropriately sized for the room can clean the air more efficiently than an undersized unit working too hard to keep up. Clean, properly maintained filters also help the system operate as intended. Replacing filters on time supports both cleaning performance and efficient operation.

How air purifiers compare with other household appliances

One of the clearest ways to understand air purifier electricity use is to compare it with appliances households already run every day. That comparison helps separate the idea of continuous operation from the reality of relatively low wattage.

Air purifiers are typically among the least energy-intensive appliances in a home. A refrigerator runs continuously and generally uses far more electricity over the course of a year. Washing machines draw hundreds of watts per cycle. Even a toaster can use far more power during a few minutes of use than an air purifier uses in an hour on a lower setting.

That comparison helps put the concern in perspective: an air purifier may run for long periods, but it usually does so at relatively low wattage. Continuous use sounds energy-intensive, yet in practice the electrical demand is often modest.

For households looking to reduce both indoor air pollution and unnecessary energy use, efficiency features can make a difference. ENERGY STAR-certified air purifiers are designed to meet stricter efficiency criteria, and smart operating modes can help reduce unnecessary power consumption without sacrificing day-to-day air cleaning.

How to keep air cleaning efficient

For most households, efficient air cleaning does not mean running an air purifier less. It means using the right settings, the right size unit, and the right maintenance habits to keep performance high and energy use modest.

A few simple habits can help:

Use auto mode when available so the purifier responds to changing air conditions automatically.
Match the air purifier to the size of the room so it can clean effectively without overworking.
Use higher fan speeds strategically during smoke events, cooking, or other short-term pollution spikes.
Replace filters on time so airflow and performance remain consistent.
Keep doors and windows closed during high-pollution events to reduce the amount of outdoor pollution entering the space.

The goal is not simply to use less electricity. It is to maintain cleaner indoor air as efficiently and consistently as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to run an air purifier 24/7?

That depends on the purifier’s wattage, fan speed, and local electricity rates. But in many cases, the cost is relatively low. A 50-watt air purifier running continuously uses about 1.2 kWh per day, which typically translates to only a few dollars per month.

Will an air purifier significantly increase my electricity bill?

Usually not. Most air purifiers use far less electricity than major household appliances such as refrigerators, dryers, or HVAC systems. Even with continuous use, the added cost is often modest.

Is auto mode more energy-efficient?

In many cases, yes. Auto mode helps a purifier respond to changing air conditions instead of running at a high setting all the time. That can reduce unnecessary energy use while still maintaining cleaner indoor air.

Conclusion

Air purifiers generally use far less electricity than many people expect. Even when they run for long periods, their energy use is often modest compared with other common household appliances.

What matters most is not simply whether an air purifier is on, but how efficiently it operates. Fan speed, auto mode, room size, and filter maintenance all influence electricity use over time.

For many households, that makes continuous air cleaning a practical and energy-efficient choice. With an efficient purifier, the right settings, and timely filter replacement, it is possible to support cleaner indoor air without adding much to monthly electricity costs.

","how-much-electricity-does-an-air-purifier-use","gid://shopify/Article/1001043657078","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-much-electricity-does-an-air-purifier-use","2026-04-29T04:00:00Z",[862,1375],"Featured articles","How much electricity does an air purifier use?",{"_10":1378,"_246":-5,"_249":1379,"_251":1380,"_247":1381},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414971429238","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/How_Much_Electricity_Desktopjpg_09987e3f-ad96-46b5-ba1d-f03030d4b2cf.jpg?v=1777480997",1748,1404,{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1383,"_1125":1384,"_1141":1385,"_1143":1386,"_1145":1387,"_1147":1388,"_994":1389,"_10":1390,"_1151":1391,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1392,"_579":1393,"_543":1394,"_1159":1395},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Everyone can do their part to prevent air pollution. Learn about 5 citizen scientists who are reshaping air quality in their own communities.","

Everyone can do their part to prevent air pollution. Learn about 5 citizen scientists who are reshaping air quality in their own communities.

","Around the world, the grassroots clean air movement is proving that real change starts at the community level. From Nairobi to Milwaukee, Baghdad to barren Antarctica, individuals and organizations are filling critical data gaps, empowering their neighbors, and driving policies that protect public health. Activists, scientists, and local leaders are demonstrating that when communities take the lead, the impact can be both local and global. Healthier air, smarter policies, and scalable solutions can inspire crucial change far beyond our own neighborhoods. Kenya’s data pioneer for East Africa According to the 2025 World Air Quality Report, there were 463 air quality monitors deployed to detect air pollution across the entire African continent. While it’s an improvement in monitoring over 2024, this still leaves vast regions and large nations like Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Somalia, and Sudan without the data needed to address pollution. \"Without data, we remain in the dark.” In Nairobi, Kenya where traffic and industrial emissions create dangerous hotspots, Tedy Mwendwa recognized this need for data and to identify air pollution sources. He deployed a low-cost air quality sensor near one of the city’s busiest streets to help detect pollutants from vehicle emissions and biomass burning. For Mwendwa, the mission is clear: “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Milwaukee’s air quality crusader In the US: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, high asthma rates disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, worsened by vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and the growing threat of wildfire smoke. Langston Verdin responded by founding the MKE FreshAir Collective, a grassroots initiative that deployed air quality monitors in neighborhoods most affected by air pollution (1). By providing real-time data, Verdin’s organization grew their following from 6,000 to nearly 24,000 people and gave them the tools to advocate for cleaner air, and helping make a public health impact. When followers receive alerts on their phones about worsening air quality, they’re better equipped to immediately respond by closing doors and windows, adjusting outdoor activities as needed, or wearing masks outside if staying indoors isn’t an option. Transforming Iraq’s air quality landscape Iraq was the 11th most polluted in country the world in 2025. Yet until recently, reliable data was almost nonexistent. \"What was once a data desert now serves as a model for rapid, community-driven action.” The MEED Foundation tackled that problem by deploying monitoring stations across 17,000 square kilometers in just six months, and provides most of the country’s real-time air quality data. What was once a data desert now serves as a model for rapid, community-driven action and has sparked national discussion regarding environmental health. Unveiling the secrets of Antarctic skies Air pollution and the need to better understand it extends to every corner of the planet. Though Antarctica’s isolation has long led to assumptions about its “pristine” air, Ukrainian scientists at the Vernadsky Research Base are uncovering a different story (2). Through continuous monitoring, they track particulate matter and seasonal variations, providing baseline data that deepens our understanding of global atmospheric dynamics. Their research ensures a full air quality picture and understanding of conditions in one of Earth’s most remote regions. Uzbekistan’s retail revolution for clean air In Uzbekistan, millions of people lacked access to air quality data, leaving them unaware of the risks they faced daily. Uzum Market is now bridging this data gap to help foster national health and environmental education. The digital ecosystem partnered with IQAir to transform supermarkets, banks, and pickup points into monitoring hubs. By leveraging existing infrastructure, they created the country’s first nationwide network, making real-time data far more accessible. Uzum Market’s innovative approach is making the invisible visible, giving citizens the information they need to protect their health and advocate for cleaner air. Join the movement Everyone can help drive environmental change and expand access to clean air. Here’s how communities can improve local air quality and stop pollution at its source: What local governments and communities can do Organize local air quality monitoring networks using affordable, real-time sensors to identify pollution hotspots. Partner with schools, businesses, and local governments to grow air quality monitoring networks and turn data into actionable policies. Advocate for cleaner transportation, green spaces, and stricter industrial emissions regulations. Host public workshops to educate residents about air quality risks and solutions. What individuals can do Support and volunteer with local air quality initiatives and advocacy groups. Share real-time air quality data with neighbors and on social platforms. Reduce personal emissions by walking, biking, or using public transit when possible. Push for transparency and accountability from local authorities on air quality issues. Download a free air quality app to know what air quality looks like in your own neighborhood in real-time. Stay informed about local air quality and participate in community-led clean air campaigns. Conclusion Some days, it may feel like a hopeless effort to try to stop air pollution. But these individuals and groups prove that cleaner air is possible and begins with community-led monitoring and advocacy. Whether in bustling cities or remote research stations, citizen scientists are proving that change doesn’t require vast resources. All it takes is determination, collaboration, and a commitment to transparency. You don’t need to be a scientist or policymaker to make a difference. Supporting or joining a local air quality initiative can turn evidence-based data and air quality science into a healthier reality in every community.","

Around the world, the grassroots clean air movement is proving that real change starts at the community level. From Nairobi to Milwaukee, Baghdad to barren Antarctica, individuals and organizations are filling critical data gaps, empowering their neighbors, and driving policies that protect public health.

Activists, scientists, and local leaders are demonstrating that when communities take the lead, the impact can be both local and global. Healthier air, smarter policies, and scalable solutions can inspire crucial change far beyond our own neighborhoods.

Kenya’s data pioneer for East Africa

According to the 2025 World Air Quality Report, there were 463 air quality monitors deployed to detect air pollution across the entire African continent. While it’s an improvement in monitoring over 2024, this still leaves vast regions and large nations like Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Somalia, and Sudan without the data needed to address pollution.

\"Without data, we remain in the dark.”

In Nairobi, Kenya where traffic and industrial emissions create dangerous hotspots, Tedy Mwendwa recognized this need for data and to identify air pollution sources. He deployed a low-cost air quality sensor near one of the city’s busiest streets to help detect pollutants from vehicle emissions and biomass burning.

For Mwendwa, the mission is clear: “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Milwaukee’s air quality crusader

In the US: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, high asthma rates disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, worsened by vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and the growing threat of wildfire smoke.

Langston Verdin responded by founding the MKE FreshAir Collective, a grassroots initiative that deployed air quality monitors in neighborhoods most affected by air pollution (1). By providing real-time data, Verdin’s organization grew their following from 6,000 to nearly 24,000 people and gave them the tools to advocate for cleaner air, and helping make a public health impact. When followers receive alerts on their phones about worsening air quality, they’re better equipped to immediately respond by closing doors and windows, adjusting outdoor activities as needed, or wearing masks outside if staying indoors isn’t an option.

Transforming Iraq’s air quality landscape

Iraq was the 11th most polluted in country the world in 2025. Yet until recently, reliable data was almost nonexistent.

\"What was once a data desert now serves as a model for rapid, community-driven action.”

The MEED Foundation tackled that problem by deploying monitoring stations across 17,000 square kilometers in just six months, and provides most of the country’s real-time air quality data. What was once a data desert now serves as a model for rapid, community-driven action and has sparked national discussion regarding environmental health.

\n\n\n

Unveiling the secrets of Antarctic skies

Air pollution and the need to better understand it extends to every corner of the planet. Though Antarctica’s isolation has long led to assumptions about its “pristine” air, Ukrainian scientists at the Vernadsky Research Base are uncovering a different story (2).

Through continuous monitoring, they track particulate matter and seasonal variations, providing baseline data that deepens our understanding of global atmospheric dynamics. Their research ensures a full air quality picture and understanding of conditions in one of Earth’s most remote regions.

Uzbekistan’s retail revolution for clean air

In Uzbekistan, millions of people lacked access to air quality data, leaving them unaware of the risks they faced daily. Uzum Market is now bridging this data gap to help foster national health and environmental education.

The digital ecosystem partnered with IQAir to transform supermarkets, banks, and pickup points into monitoring hubs. By leveraging existing infrastructure, they created the country’s first nationwide network, making real-time data far more accessible. Uzum Market’s innovative approach is making the invisible visible, giving citizens the information they need to protect their health and advocate for cleaner air.

Join the movement

Everyone can help drive environmental change and expand access to clean air. Here’s how communities can improve local air quality and stop pollution at its source:

What local governments and communities can do

Organize local air quality monitoring networks using affordable, real-time sensors to identify pollution hotspots.
Partner with schools, businesses, and local governments to grow air quality monitoring networks and turn data into actionable policies.
Advocate for cleaner transportation, green spaces, and stricter industrial emissions regulations.
\n
Host public workshops to educate residents about air quality risks and solutions.

What individuals can do

Support and volunteer with local air quality initiatives and advocacy groups.
\nShare real-time air quality data with neighbors and on social platforms.
Reduce personal emissions by walking, biking, or using public transit when possible.
Push for transparency and accountability from local authorities on air quality issues.
Download a free air quality app to know what air quality looks like in your own neighborhood in real-time.
Stay informed about local air quality and participate in community-led clean air campaigns.
\n

Conclusion

Some days, it may feel like a hopeless effort to try to stop air pollution. But these individuals and groups prove that cleaner air is possible and begins with community-led monitoring and advocacy. Whether in bustling cities or remote research stations, citizen scientists are proving that change doesn’t require vast resources. All it takes is determination, collaboration, and a commitment to transparency.

You don’t need to be a scientist or policymaker to make a difference. Supporting or joining a local air quality initiative can turn evidence-based data and air quality science into a healthier reality in every community.

","clean-air-starts-with-communities-5-advocates-leading-the-way","gid://shopify/Article/1001030254966","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/clean-air-starts-with-communities-5-advocates-leading-the-way","2026-04-27T06:00:01Z",[393,650,1375],"5 Clean air advocates leading the way",{"_10":1396,"_246":1397,"_249":1398,"_251":1399,"_247":1400},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414879613302","Clean air advocates","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Blog_CleanAirCommunity_Desk2_be3f599e-e9a5-4b39-ab35-67306bb3b9e8.jpg?v=1777309824",839,674,"latest",[1403,1420,1437,1454,1471,1488],{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1404,"_1125":1405,"_1141":1406,"_1143":1407,"_1145":1408,"_1147":1409,"_994":1410,"_10":1411,"_1151":1412,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1413,"_579":1414,"_543":1416,"_1159":1417},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Wildfires spread across Brantley County in Georgia, burning structures and causing road closures. Learn more about what is causing the Georgia wildfires.","

Wildfires spread across Brantley County in Georgia, burning structures and causing road closures. Learn more about what is causing the Georgia wildfires.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? On May 3, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fire is burning in southeastern region of Georgia, neighboring the northern Florida border. The fire is located just off U.S. Highway 82 near the Brantley County line, bordering Glynn County and spreading into Camden County (1)(2). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The Brantley Highway 82 wildfire has spread across multiple highways, neighborhoods, and communities, including (3)(4): Atkinson Waynesville Happy Hollow U.S. Highway 82 area, from Nahunta to Post Road Highway 110 West, near Camden County line Highway 259, near Camden County line What is the current containment status of the Brantley Highway 82 Fire? On May 3, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fires has burned approximately 22,532 acres and is about 64% contained. Brantley County, Glynn County, and Effingham County Fire Rescue teams have been working together to contain the wildfire and stop the spread to neighboring communities. Glynn County issued a temporary outdoor burn ban, prohibiting outdoor fires ignited by residents, such as fireworks and bonfire pits, to prevent additional wildfires (5)(6). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Mandatory evacuation orders for several neighborhoods and communities have been issued all throughout Brantley County, including Happy Hollow, Hawks Landing, and Drury Court. Those needing to evacuate are directed to use Highway 32 for safety. Various neighboring cities are on wildfire watch as winds continue to carry smoke throughout the state. On April 22, 2026, all Brantley County schools were closed due to the wildfire breaching containment. Shelters are open to the public through various churches in the Nahunta and Hortense region, providing food and water to locals in need. Residents in neighboring cities on wildfire watch alert are advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and monitor fire updates and alerts (7). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. 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. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. On May 3, 2026, this fire is 64% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

On May 3, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fire is burning in southeastern region of Georgia, neighboring the northern Florida border.

The fire is located just off U.S. Highway 82 near the Brantley County line, bordering Glynn County and spreading into Camden County (1)(2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The Brantley Highway 82 wildfire has spread across multiple highways, neighborhoods, and communities, including (3)(4):

Atkinson
Waynesville
Happy Hollow
U.S. Highway 82 area, from Nahunta to Post Road
Highway 110 West, near Camden County line
Highway 259, near Camden County line

What is the current containment status of the Brantley Highway 82 Fire?

On May 3, 2026, the Brantley Highway 82 Fires has burned approximately 22,532 acres and is about 64% contained.

Brantley County, Glynn County, and Effingham County Fire Rescue teams have been working together to contain the wildfire and stop the spread to neighboring communities. Glynn County issued a temporary outdoor burn ban, prohibiting outdoor fires ignited by residents, such as fireworks and bonfire pits, to prevent additional wildfires (5)(6).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Mandatory evacuation orders for several neighborhoods and communities have been issued all throughout Brantley County, including Happy Hollow, Hawks Landing, and Drury Court. Those needing to evacuate are directed to use Highway 32 for safety. Various neighboring cities are on wildfire watch as winds continue to carry smoke throughout the state.

On April 22, 2026, all Brantley County schools were closed due to the wildfire breaching containment. Shelters are open to the public through various churches in the Nahunta and Hortense region, providing food and water to locals in need. Residents in neighboring cities on wildfire watch alert are advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and monitor fire updates and alerts (7).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

On May 3, 2026, this fire is 64% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-brantley-highway-82-fire-georgia","gid://shopify/Article/1001165488502","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-brantley-highway-82-fire-georgia","2026-05-03T08:25:31Z",[393,645,1415],"Wildfires","Wildfire Map Spotlight: Brantley Highway 82 Fire, Georgia",{"_10":1418,"_246":-5,"_249":1419,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415066390902","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire2Desktop_c55a890f-06ce-45b9-bc8f-11b27e28c4a3.jpg?v=1777796735",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1421,"_1125":1422,"_1141":1423,"_1143":1424,"_1145":1425,"_1147":1426,"_994":1427,"_10":1428,"_1151":1429,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1430,"_579":1431,"_543":1432,"_1159":1433},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Find out more about the Hummingbird Fire burning in southwestern New Mexico, including impacted communities, evacuation alerts, and containment updates.","

Find out more about the Hummingbird Fire burning in southwestern New Mexico, including impacted communities, evacuation alerts, and containment updates.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of May 3, 2026, the Hummingbird Fire is actively burning in the Gila National Forest within New Mexico’s Gila National Forest. The lightning-caused wildfire began on April 20 and is located approximately 15 miles east of Glenwood, in Catron County. The fire has spread through steep and rugged terrain near Iron Creek Mesa and Iron Creek, with smoke visible from nearby landmarks including Gila Cliff Dwellings and surrounding wilderness areas (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Hummingbird Fire include: Gila Valley Silver City Willow Creek Subdivision What is the current containment status of the wildfire? As of May 3, 2026, the Hummingbird Fire has burned approximately 5,650 acres and remains 17% contained. Fire crews continue using both ground and aviation resources to slow the fire’s spread and protect nearby communities. Firefighters have been constructing containment lines, securing spot fires, and protecting structures in vulnerable areas. High winds previously limited aerial firefighting operations, though improved weather conditions have allowed aircraft to resume support efforts (2). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? A Level 3 “GO” evacuation order remains in effect for residents of the Willow Creek Subdivision, meaning residents should evacuate immediately. Fire crews have been actively clearing debris and installing structure protection equipment in the area to safeguard homes. Authorities are urging residents to monitor updates from Catron County Emergency Management and local officials for additional evacuation alerts or changing fire conditions. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. 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. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of May 3, 2026, this fire is 17% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 3, 2026, the Hummingbird Fire is actively burning in the Gila National Forest within New Mexico’s Gila National Forest.

The lightning-caused wildfire began on April 20 and is located approximately 15 miles east of Glenwood, in Catron County.

The fire has spread through steep and rugged terrain near Iron Creek Mesa and Iron Creek, with smoke visible from nearby landmarks including Gila Cliff Dwellings and surrounding wilderness areas (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Hummingbird Fire include:

Gila Valley
\nSilver City
\n
Willow Creek Subdivision

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of May 3, 2026, the Hummingbird Fire has burned approximately 5,650 acres and remains 17% contained.

Fire crews continue using both ground and aviation resources to slow the fire’s spread and protect nearby communities.

Firefighters have been constructing containment lines, securing spot fires, and protecting structures in vulnerable areas. High winds previously limited aerial firefighting operations, though improved weather conditions have allowed aircraft to resume support efforts (2).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A Level 3 “GO” evacuation order remains in effect for residents of the Willow Creek Subdivision, meaning residents should evacuate immediately.

Fire crews have been actively clearing debris and installing structure protection equipment in the area to safeguard homes. Authorities are urging residents to monitor updates from Catron County Emergency Management and local officials for additional evacuation alerts or changing fire conditions.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of May 3, 2026, this fire is 17% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-hummingbird-fire-new-mexico","gid://shopify/Article/1001217491318","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-hummingbird-fire-new-mexico","2026-05-03T08:23:47Z",[393,645,670,1415],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Hummingbird Fire, New Mexico",{"_10":1434,"_246":1435,"_249":1436,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415066292598","Smoke rises from a wildfire burning through forest vegetation.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire5Desktop_cfbcfb36-180e-41f5-af03-fdee1385b275.jpg?v=1777796630",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1438,"_1125":1439,"_1141":1440,"_1143":1441,"_1145":1442,"_1147":1443,"_994":1444,"_10":1445,"_1151":1446,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1447,"_579":1448,"_543":1449,"_1159":1450},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Find out more about the Sparks Fire and its current impact in New Mexico.","

Find out more about the Sparks Fire and its current impact in New Mexico.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of May 3, 2026, the Sparks Fire is burning in Quay County in northeastern New Mexico, near Highway 156 at mile marker 41, approximately 16 miles northwest of House. The fire is located in a remote area north of Hassell and is fueled by grass and piñon-juniper vegetation, contributing to its continued spread (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Sparks Fire include: Broadview Grady Hassell House Melrose Porter Tucumcari These areas are either directly impacted or supporting firefighting and emergency response efforts due to their proximity to the wildfire (2). What is the current containment status of the wildfire? As of May 3, 2026, the Sparks Fire remains 85% contained and has burned an estimated 6000 acres. Fire crews have made progress in establishing fire lines around the perimeter, aided by increased humidity and reduced fire activity. Despite this, the fire continues to exhibit creeping and smoldering behavior, and full suppression efforts remain ongoing, with ground crews and aerial support working to secure the area (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? There are no evacuation orders in place for the Sparks Fire. However, authorities have issued safety advisories urging the public to avoid the area near Highway 156 at mile marker 41 due to active fire operations and potential hazards. Residents in nearby areas should remain alert, as structures continue to be threatened and conditions can change rapidly. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. 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. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of May 3, 2026, this fire is 85% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 3, 2026, the Sparks Fire is burning in Quay County in northeastern New Mexico, near Highway 156 at mile marker 41, approximately 16 miles northwest of House.

The fire is located in a remote area north of Hassell and is fueled by grass and piñon-juniper vegetation, contributing to its continued spread (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Sparks Fire include:

Broadview
Grady
Hassell
House
Melrose
Porter
Tucumcari

These areas are either directly impacted or supporting firefighting and emergency response efforts due to their proximity to the wildfire (2).

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of May 3, 2026, the Sparks Fire remains 85% contained and has burned an estimated 6000 acres.

Fire crews have made progress in establishing fire lines around the perimeter, aided by increased humidity and reduced fire activity. Despite this, the fire continues to exhibit creeping and smoldering behavior, and full suppression efforts remain ongoing, with ground crews and aerial support working to secure the area (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There are no evacuation orders in place for the Sparks Fire. However, authorities have issued safety advisories urging the public to avoid the area near Highway 156 at mile marker 41 due to active fire operations and potential hazards.

Residents in nearby areas should remain alert, as structures continue to be threatened and conditions can change rapidly.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of May 3, 2026, this fire is 85% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-sparks-fire-new-mexico","gid://shopify/Article/1001272508790","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-sparks-fire-new-mexico","2026-05-02T21:01:46Z",[393,645,670,1415],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Sparks Fire, New Mexico",{"_10":1451,"_246":1452,"_249":1453,"_251":1232,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415056265590","Forest fire at a distance in night time","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire3Desktop_59973f96-5bdc-4af6-8572-ee94f165e172.jpg?v=1777755713",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1455,"_1125":1456,"_1141":1457,"_1143":1458,"_1145":1459,"_1147":1460,"_994":1461,"_10":1462,"_1151":1463,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1464,"_579":1465,"_543":1466,"_1159":1467},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Find out more about the Pineland Road Fire and its impact on communities in southern Georgia.","

Find out more about the Pineland Road Fire and its impact on communities in southern Georgia.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of May 3, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire is burning in southern Georgia across Clinch and Echols counties. The fire is located approximately 5 miles west of Colon Road and Mud Camp Pineland Road, near Highway 441 and close to the Suwannee River at the boundary between the two counties (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Pineland Road Fire include: Colon Echols County Fargo Highway area Needmore Fruitland Regions near Headlight Road Regions near Tiger Lake Road Regions near Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road What is the current containment status of the Pineland Road Fire? As of May 3, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire has burned approximately 32,500 acres and is 44% contained. Firefighting crews continue suppression efforts under challenging conditions, including severe drought, low humidity, strong winds, and difficult swampy terrain. Full containment is not expected until late May (2). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? A mandatory evacuation order is in effect for all of Fruitland in Echols County. Residents are urged to leave immediately, take essentials, pets, and medications, and follow official exit routes and instructions. Evacuation alerts remain in place for residents near Highway 441 between Headlight Road and Tiger Lake Road, as well as areas east of Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road. Officials advise residents not to return to evacuated areas until authorities declare it safe. Evacuation shelters have been opened, including Venture of Faith Camp in Lake Park and Camp Rock in Valdosta (3). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. 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. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of May 3, 2026, this fire is 44% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 3, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire is burning in southern Georgia across Clinch and Echols counties.

The fire is located approximately 5 miles west of Colon Road and Mud Camp Pineland Road, near Highway 441 and close to the Suwannee River at the boundary between the two counties (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Pineland Road Fire include:

Colon
Echols County
Fargo Highway area
Needmore
Fruitland
Regions near Headlight Road
Regions near Tiger Lake Road
Regions near Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road

What is the current containment status of the Pineland Road Fire?

As of May 3, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire has burned approximately 32,500 acres and is 44% contained.

Firefighting crews continue suppression efforts under challenging conditions, including severe drought, low humidity, strong winds, and difficult swampy terrain. Full containment is not expected until late May (2).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A mandatory evacuation order is in effect for all of Fruitland in Echols County. Residents are urged to leave immediately, take essentials, pets, and medications, and follow official exit routes and instructions.

Evacuation alerts remain in place for residents near Highway 441 between Headlight Road and Tiger Lake Road, as well as areas east of Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road. Officials advise residents not to return to evacuated areas until authorities declare it safe.

Evacuation shelters have been opened, including Venture of Faith Camp in Lake Park and Camp Rock in Valdosta (3).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of May 3, 2026, this fire is 44% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-pineland-road-fire-georgia","gid://shopify/Article/1001134391670","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-pineland-road-fire-georgia","2026-05-02T20:43:06Z",[393,645,670,1415],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Pineland Road Fire, Georgia",{"_10":1468,"_246":1469,"_249":1470,"_251":1399,"_247":1400},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415056134518","Wildfire engulfs a dense forest","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire9Desktop_c10adc52-d324-42bf-8c09-56ce3ce3f8af.jpg?v=1777754595",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1472,"_1125":1473,"_1141":1474,"_1143":1475,"_1145":1476,"_1147":1477,"_994":1478,"_10":1479,"_1151":1480,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1481,"_579":1482,"_543":1483,"_1159":1484},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Learn about air pollution trends, causes, and expected improvements in major East Asian cities.","

Learn about air pollution trends, causes, and expected improvements in major East Asian cities.

","Is the air quality good in Seoul? On May 2, 2026, at 11:00 PM (local time), air quality in Seoul, South Korea is unhealthy for sensitive groups, with an Air Quality Index of 115. Air quality is impacted by emissions, transboundary pollution, and secondary pollutant formation, with seasonal factors like dust transport and photochemical reactions further worsening conditions (1). Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently, Seoul ranked 4th among the most polluted major cities in the world on Saturday night (local time). Poor air quality is impacting cities across South Korea, including Busan, Cheonan, Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju, Gwangyang and Incheon. Click here for a real-time air quality map of Seoul. While the current air quality is poor, it is notable that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for Seoul was 17.9 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 63 (“moderate”), and was 3.5 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Seoul, South Korea ranked as the 4th most polluted major city on May 2, 2026 at 11 PM PT. Source: IQAir. When will air quality improve in Seoul? Air quality is forecasted to improve into a moderate range by tomorrow, with gradual long-term improvements expected as emission controls continue. Hourly air quality forecast for Seoul, South Korea on May 2, 2026. Source: IQAir. Sustained progress will depend on: Stronger emission control policies and cleaner energy adoption Reduced vehicle emissions Regional cooperation to limit transboundary pollution Seasonal factors like monsoon-driven dispersion and lower activity levels may also bring temporary relief, though consistent improvement may take time due to complex pollution sources (2). Air quality map of Seoul, South Korea on May 9, 2026. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Seoul? Poor air quality in East Asian urban regions is caused by a combination of local emissions and regional influences. Vehicular emissions: A major source of NO₂ and PM2.5, especially in cities like Seoul Industrial activities: Contribute to particulate matter and gaseous pollutants Coal burning: Particularly significant in Beijing during winter heating seasons Transboundary pollution: Dust storms and pollutants transported from neighboring regions Secondary pollutant formation: Chemical reactions in the atmosphere forming ozone and fine particles Agricultural emissions: Ammonia from livestock contributes to particulate formation Meteorological conditions such as temperature inversions and low wind speeds can trap pollutants near the surface, worsening air quality episodes (3). 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.","

Is the air quality good in Seoul?

On May 2, 2026, at 11:00 PM (local time), air quality in Seoul, South Korea is unhealthy for sensitive groups, with an Air Quality Index of 115.

Air quality is impacted by emissions, transboundary pollution, and secondary pollutant formation, with seasonal factors like dust transport and photochemical reactions further worsening conditions (1).

Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently, Seoul ranked 4th among the most polluted major cities in the world on Saturday night (local time).

Poor air quality is impacting cities across South Korea, including Busan, Cheonan, Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju, Gwangyang and Incheon.

Click here for a real-time air quality map of Seoul.

While the current air quality is poor, it is notable that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for Seoul was 17.9 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 63 (“moderate”), and was 3.5 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

$\"\"$ Seoul, South Korea ranked as the 4th most polluted major city on May 2, 2026 at 11 PM PT. Source: IQAir.

When will air quality improve in Seoul?

Air quality is forecasted to improve into a moderate range by tomorrow, with gradual long-term improvements expected as emission controls continue.

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Seoul, South Korea on May 2, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Sustained progress will depend on:

Stronger emission control policies and cleaner energy adoption
Reduced vehicle emissions
Regional cooperation to limit transboundary pollution

Seasonal factors like monsoon-driven dispersion and lower activity levels may also bring temporary relief, though consistent improvement may take time due to complex pollution sources (2).

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Seoul, South Korea on May 9, 2026. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Seoul?

Poor air quality in East Asian urban regions is caused by a combination of local emissions and regional influences.

Vehicular emissions: A major source of NO₂ and PM2.5, especially in cities like Seoul
Industrial activities: Contribute to particulate matter and gaseous pollutants
Coal burning: Particularly significant in Beijing during winter heating seasons
Transboundary pollution: Dust storms and pollutants transported from neighboring regions
Secondary pollutant formation: Chemical reactions in the atmosphere forming ozone and fine particles
Agricultural emissions: Ammonia from livestock contributes to particulate formation

Meteorological conditions such as temperature inversions and low wind speeds can trap pollutants near the surface, worsening air quality episodes (3).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet 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.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","seoul-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-2-2026","gid://shopify/Article/1001287483766","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/seoul-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-2-2026","2026-05-02T15:15:02Z",[393,645],"May 2, 2026: Seoul among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_10":1485,"_246":1486,"_249":1487,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415052497270","Polluted skies over Seoul","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/SeoulDesktop_bfdf7f9c-ed79-4276-953c-942615fd09b5.jpg?v=1777735871",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1489,"_1125":1490,"_1141":1491,"_1143":1492,"_1145":1493,"_1147":1494,"_994":1495,"_10":1496,"_1151":1497,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1498,"_579":1499,"_543":1500,"_1159":1501},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"A major wildfire burning in Wales’ Elan Valley has triggered multi-day firefighting efforts and public safety alerts. Click here to learn more.","

A major wildfire burning in Wales’ Elan Valley has triggered multi-day firefighting efforts and public safety alerts. Click here to learn more.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of May 1, 2026, the Elan Valley Fire is burning across moorland in the Elan Valley area of Powys, mid-Wales. The wildfire has continued for several days in difficult upland terrain, prompting a large emergency response involving firefighters and helicopters. Dry vegetation and warm weather conditions have contributed to the fire’s persistence across the remote landscape (1). Fire map of Elan Valley, Powys, mid-Wales as of May 1, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities or areas are affected by the Elan Valley Fire? The Elan Valley Fire is affecting several areas in Powys, including: Cwmystwyth Elan Valley Rhayader Smoke and emergency activity have also affected surrounding rural communities and nearby upland recreation areas in mid-Wales (2). What is the current containment status of the Elan Valley Fire? As of May 1, 2026, the Elan Valley Fire remains active after burning for five consecutive days. Fire crews and helicopters continue suppression efforts across difficult terrain, with authorities working to contain remaining hotspots. Officials have not released a containment percentage, but firefighting operations remain ongoing as changing weather and dry ground conditions continue to complicate efforts (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? No mandatory evacuation orders have been reported. However, authorities have urged the public to avoid the Elan Valley and surrounding upland areas while firefighting operations continue. Public safety warnings remain in place due to smoke, active fire zones, and the presence of emergency aircraft and ground crews operating across the region (4). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. 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. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 1, 2026, the Elan Valley Fire is burning across moorland in the Elan Valley area of Powys, mid-Wales. The wildfire has continued for several days in difficult upland terrain, prompting a large emergency response involving firefighters and helicopters.

Dry vegetation and warm weather conditions have contributed to the fire’s persistence across the remote landscape (1).

$\"\"$ Fire map of Elan Valley, Powys, mid-Wales as of May 1, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities or areas are affected by the Elan Valley Fire?

The Elan Valley Fire is affecting several areas in Powys, including:

Cwmystwyth
Elan Valley
\n
Rhayader

Smoke and emergency activity have also affected surrounding rural communities and nearby upland recreation areas in mid-Wales (2).

What is the current containment status of the Elan Valley Fire?

As of May 1, 2026, the Elan Valley Fire remains active after burning for five consecutive days. Fire crews and helicopters continue suppression efforts across difficult terrain, with authorities working to contain remaining hotspots.

Officials have not released a containment percentage, but firefighting operations remain ongoing as changing weather and dry ground conditions continue to complicate efforts (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

No mandatory evacuation orders have been reported. However, authorities have urged the public to avoid the Elan Valley and surrounding upland areas while firefighting operations continue.

Public safety warnings remain in place due to smoke, active fire zones, and the presence of emergency aircraft and ground crews operating across the region (4).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

","wildfire-map-spotlight-elan-valley-fire-wales","gid://shopify/Article/1001277751670","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-elan-valley-fire-wales","2026-05-01T05:51:18Z",[393,645,670],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Elan Valley Fire, Wales",{"_10":1502,"_246":-5,"_249":1503,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415018910070","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire4Desktop_faeb55cf-abd3-4d56-8c52-46bea6a66673.jpg?v=1777614683","popular",[1506,1523,1539,1555],{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1507,"_1125":1508,"_1141":1509,"_1143":1509,"_1145":1510,"_1147":1511,"_994":1512,"_10":1513,"_1151":1514,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1515,"_579":1516,"_543":1518,"_1159":1519},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Learn why wildfire smoke poses a health risk to people living far downwind and what you can do to help protect yourself.","When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation. The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation. Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways: by robbing it of oxygen through particulate matter irritation Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.1 Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke. What’s in wildfire smoke? Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire. Wildfire smoke often contains: water vapor particulate matter trace minerals carbon dioxide carbon monoxide nitrogen oxides hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O3) levels volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants) Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body. Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including: the types of wood and vegetation burning the moisture content the fire temperature wind conditions other weather-related influences The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health. Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs. The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body. Clean the air with high-performance air filtration Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers Click here Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:2 Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition. Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population. Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease. Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk. Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.3 The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.4 Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.5 The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition. How wildfire smoke behaves Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as: weather geographical terrain the stage of the fire wind Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you. Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact. Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts. Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.6 Wildfire safety tips Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires. Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires. Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available. Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help. Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO2 from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire. Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO2, and NO2, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health. Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions. During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air. The takeaway Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source. Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks. By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.","

When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation.

The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.

Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways:

by robbing it of oxygen
through particulate matter irritation

Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.¹

Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke.

What’s in wildfire smoke?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire.

Wildfire smoke often contains:

\n
water vapor
\n
\n
particulate matter
\n
\n
trace minerals
\n
\n
carbon dioxide
\n
\n
carbon monoxide
\n
\n
nitrogen oxides
\n
\n
hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O₃) levels
\n
\n
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants)
\n

Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body.

$\"What's$

Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir

Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including:

\n
the types of wood and vegetation burning
\n

\n
the moisture content
\n
\n
the fire temperature
\n
\n
wind conditions
\n
\n
other weather-related influences
\n

The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health.

Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs.

The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body.

\n \n

\n\n

Clean the air with high-performance air filtration
Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers

\n\n

Click here

Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations

Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:²

\n
Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition.
\n
\n
Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population.
\n
\n
Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease.
\n
\n
Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk.
\n
\n
Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia.
\n

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.³

The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.⁴

Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.⁵ The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition.

 Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition.

How wildfire smoke behaves

Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as:

\n
weather
\n
\n
geographical terrain
\n
\n
the stage of the fire
\n
\n
wind
\n

Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you.

$\"placeholder$

Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact.

Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts.

Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.⁶

Wildfire safety tips

Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires.

\n
Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
\n
\n
Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
\n
\n
Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
\n
\n
Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants.
\n
\n
Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.
\n
\n
Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO₂, and NO₂, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health.
\n

$\"Google$ $\"App$ $\"Android\"$

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air.

The takeaway

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source.

Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks.

By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.

","how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/606869291307","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","2025-07-01T20:46:00Z",[393,645,1517,1415],"Popular articles","How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_10":1520,"_246":1521,"_249":1522,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406601138550","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_790d6d55-874f-4c95-bff8-11655661a476.jpg?v=1752702197",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1524,"_1125":1525,"_1141":1526,"_1143":1526,"_1145":1527,"_1147":1528,"_994":1529,"_10":1530,"_1151":1531,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1532,"_579":1533,"_543":1534,"_1159":1535},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"How can you know what air purifier manufacturers to trust? Let's look more critically at air purification.","The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification. But not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction. What should I look for in an air purifier? Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier. 1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry. What is a HEPA filter? High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market. But it wasn’t always that way. Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1). Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2). HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants. In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3). Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size. 2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal. All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA. To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4). The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5). So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6). Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less. Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media. 3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA. While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air. Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in. How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think: Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen. Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields. Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter). Air passes through the activated carbon bed. Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area. Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8). Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to. The takeaway Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are: HyperHEPA media for particle filtration No system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing Activated carbon for gas and odor filtration But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier. What should I avoid in an air purifier? When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited. But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase. So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health. Ionizer air purifiers Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture. Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10). But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12): Ionizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions. Ionizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations. Verdict Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.” Ozone Generators It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13). Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm. However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18): Ozone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases. Ozone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children. Indoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks. Verdict Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets. UV Light Purifiers Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20). One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI. In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21). But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26): Bacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful. Some bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light. UV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5. Many UV air purifiers produce ozone. UV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer. Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter. Verdict Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated. What do I do now? At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system. So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality: Get a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence. Use advanced gas-phase filtration. Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon. The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration. Use a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere. Install a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality. Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs. The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.","

The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification.

But not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction.

What should I look for in an air purifier?

Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier.

$\"Air$

1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1).

Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2).

HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants.

In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3).

Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.

The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems.

Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size.

2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal.

All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA.

To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4).

The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5).

So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6).

Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less.

Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media.

3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA.

While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air.

Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in.

How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think:

Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen.
Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields.
Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter).
Air passes through the activated carbon bed.
Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area.

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8).

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes.

Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to.

The takeaway

Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are:

\nHyperHEPA media for particle filtration
\nNo system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing
\nActivated carbon for gas and odor filtration

But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier.

What should I avoid in an air purifier?

When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited.

But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase.

So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health.

Ionizer air purifiers

Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture.

Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10).

But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12):

\nIonizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions.
\nIonizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. \n

Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations.

Verdict

Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.”

Ozone Generators

It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13).

Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm.

However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18):

\nOzone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases.
\nOzone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children.
\nIndoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks.

Verdict

Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets.

UV Light Purifiers

Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20).

One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI.

In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21).

But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26):

\nBacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful.
\nSome bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light.
\nUV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5.
Many UV air purifiers produce ozone.
\nUV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer.

Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter.

Verdict

Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated.

What do I do now?

At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system.

So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality:

\nGet a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence.
\nUse advanced gas-phase filtration.\n
- Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon.
- The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration.
\n
\nUse a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere.
\nInstall a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality.

Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs.

The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.

","do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869193003","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","2022-01-02T14:14:32Z",[862,660,1517],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_10":1536,"_246":1537,"_249":1538,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/408358224246","Close-up of what appears to be a room air purifier with some plants in the background (another indoor air purifying tool that has been shown to be ineffective in improving indoor air quality).","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_misconceptions-about-air-purifiers_5058ed72-2e8d-4b0f-9570-93510f9f1f89.jpg?v=1758212336",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1540,"_1125":1541,"_1141":1542,"_1143":1542,"_1145":1543,"_1147":1544,"_994":1545,"_10":1546,"_1151":1547,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1548,"_579":1549,"_543":1550,"_1159":1551},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"They look great on your nightstand, but are they worth their salt as air purifiers? Learn more.","Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?Again, two words: negative ionization.If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.1 Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.2The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O3).There are two main types of ozone: Stratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke. Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including: Coughing Wheezing Trouble breathing Stuffy nose Dizziness Tingling in arms and legs Fever3,4 Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:5 Stable air temperature Moderate to high humidity Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium Lack of airborne pollutants Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.6Take the claims with a grain of...well, saltSo here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead: Be aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes. Control sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions. Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%. Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites. Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas. Ventilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels. Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good. Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking. Use an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone. Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.","

Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.

These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.

They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.

But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.

A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.

And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.

Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?

Again, two words: negative ionization.

If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.

In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.

This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.¹ Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.

The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.

Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.²

The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.

And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O₃).

There are two main types of ozone:

\nStratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
\nTropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke.

Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.

If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including:

Coughing
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Stuffy nose
Dizziness
Tingling in arms and legs
Fever^3,4\n

Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.

So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.

So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?

So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?

The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.

Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:⁵

Stable air temperature
Moderate to high humidity
Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Lack of airborne pollutants

Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.⁶

Take the claims with a grain of...well, salt

So here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.

But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.

You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead:

\nBe aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes.
\nControl sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions.\n\n\t
- Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%.
- Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites.
- Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas.
\n\n\t
\nVentilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels.\n\n\t
- Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking.
\n\n\t
\nUse an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone.

Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.
\n\n

","himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869356843","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","2019-06-17T13:49:29Z",[393,660,1517],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_10":1552,"_246":1553,"_249":1554,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406288400758","Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_HimalayanSalt_061419_750_ebdb5244-3cb4-49a7-b887-47de5134ba96.jpg?v=1751543557",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1556,"_1125":1557,"_1141":1558,"_1143":1558,"_1145":1559,"_1147":1560,"_994":1561,"_10":1562,"_1151":1563,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1564,"_579":1565,"_543":1566,"_1159":1567},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Learn more how scented candles release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit — and can harm your health.","Are scented candles bad for you?Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.Paraffin waxAre paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like: alkenes acetone benzene toluene These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).Is burning candles bad for you?In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including: allergies asthma COPD (5) respiratory tract infections heart attacks strokes cancer So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).Chemical fragrancesAnother problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7): formaldehyde petroleum distillates limonene alcohol esters These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as: headaches dizziness allergy symptoms asthma attacks respiratory tract infections cancer Cored wicksMany candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).Safer alternativesTo limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air: Use essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma. Simmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. Create potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home. The takeawayLighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.","

Are scented candles bad for you?

Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.

Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.

Paraffin wax

Are paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?

According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like:

alkenes
acetone
benzene
toluene

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.

A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).

Is burning candles bad for you?

In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).

A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).

Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including:

allergies
asthma
COPD (5)
respiratory tract infections
heart attacks
strokes
cancer

So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).

Chemical fragrances

Another problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7):

formaldehyde
petroleum distillates
limonene
alcohol
esters

These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as:

headaches
dizziness
allergy symptoms
asthma attacks
respiratory tract infections
cancer
\n\n\t

Cored wicks

Many candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.

Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.

All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.

However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).

Safer alternatives

To limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).

If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air:

\nUse essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma.
\nSimmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
\nCreate potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.

The takeaway

Lighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.

","hidden-dangers-scented-candles","gid://shopify/Article/606869127467","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-scented-candles","2016-12-04T22:35:53Z",[660,1517],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_10":1568,"_246":1569,"_249":1570,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405721284982","Two lit candles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/49_scented_desktop_RE_3518d342-9492-4308-82e5-ee4111074a17.jpg?v=1749633010","successStories",[1573,1590,1607,1622],{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1574,"_1125":1575,"_1141":1576,"_1143":1577,"_1145":1578,"_1147":1579,"_994":1580,"_10":1581,"_1151":1582,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1583,"_579":1584,"_543":1585,"_1159":1586},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.","

Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.

","“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.” In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data. Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning. \"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.” “It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Local expertise, global resources drive innovation Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight. The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity. The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life. These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa. By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa. The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives. Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said. Cultivating environmental consciousness Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.” “Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.” Conclusion From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.","

“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.”

In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data.

Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air

In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning.

\"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.”

“It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Local expertise, global resources drive innovation

Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight.

The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity.

The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life.

These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa.

By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa.

The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa

The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report , there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.

Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives.

Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow

Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.

The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said.

Cultivating environmental consciousness

Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"

Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.”

“Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.”

Conclusion

From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.

Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.

Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.

","revealing-the-invisible-kenya","gid://shopify/Article/607976751403","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-kenya","2025-12-01T04:00:00Z",[655,847],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_10":1587,"_246":1588,"_249":1589,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/411421278582","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_4f1dd00b-baa3-4e27-9eed-3acd42f2faae.jpg?v=1767630558",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1591,"_1125":1592,"_1141":1593,"_1143":1594,"_1145":1595,"_1147":1596,"_994":1597,"_10":1598,"_1151":1599,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1600,"_579":1601,"_543":1602,"_1159":1603},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.","

WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.

","In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen. In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat. \"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan. As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.” Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data. \"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained. WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan. “Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data. With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country. Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers. Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change. Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan. \"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.” Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives. With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution. Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data. \"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution. The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\" “Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.” In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents. It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1). Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony. Conclusion WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters. “This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”","

In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen.

In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more.

Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat.

\"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan.

As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.”

Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data

Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data.

\"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained.

WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan.

“Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data.

With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country.

Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network

WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers.

Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change.

Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan

With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan.

\"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.”

Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives.

With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution.

Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions

WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data.

\"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution.

The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\"

“Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.”

In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents.

It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1).

Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony.

Conclusion

WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play.

As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters.

“This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”

","revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","gid://shopify/Article/997495079286","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","2025-11-12T17:43:03Z",[650,655,847],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_10":1604,"_246":1605,"_249":1606,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/410126352758","WWF Team standing Next to Solar Panel","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_PakistanContributor_Desk_A_a18d7b5d-29f7-4e70-ad5d-e0c4f15aebc6.jpg?v=1762969386",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1608,"_1125":1609,"_1141":60,"_1143":60,"_1145":1610,"_1147":1611,"_994":1612,"_10":1613,"_1151":1614,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1615,"_579":1616,"_543":1617,"_1159":1618},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors. A vision born from necessity Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted. Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air. “There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.” –Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health The journey of Permian Health Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside. \"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\" Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions. Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.” “The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.” Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March. Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data. Pioneering work on the ground To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\" This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said. However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues. ‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained. Uniting minds and garnering accolades To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project. A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data. \"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray. This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country. Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors. With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors. Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further. Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment. Hopes for the Future Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia. Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed. Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia. “We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.” \"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\" A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan. According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\" \"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network. Conclusion Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders. Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.","

In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors.

A vision born from necessity

Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted.

Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.

\n
“There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”
\n
–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health
\n

The journey of Permian Health

Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside.

\"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\"

Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality

Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions.

$\"\"$

Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.”

\n
“The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.”
\n

Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March.

Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data.

Pioneering work on the ground

To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\"

This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said.

However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues.

‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained.

Uniting minds and garnering accolades

To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project.

A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data.

\"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray.

This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country.

Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors.

With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors.

Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further.

Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment.

Hopes for the Future

Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia.

$\"\"$

Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed.

Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia.

\n
“We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.”
\n

\"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\"

A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan.

According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\"

\"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network.

Conclusion

Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders.

Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.

","permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","gid://shopify/Article/998083264886","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","2025-03-24T10:03:00Z",[650,655,847],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s air quality crusade in Gambia",{"_10":1619,"_246":1620,"_249":1621,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/407094034806","Man working on pole","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/PermianHealth_Desk_A_82dc4964-aaa3-4053-96ec-1d5218eb3bd9.jpg?v=1754470616",{"_1134":1135,"_1136":1623,"_1125":1624,"_1141":1625,"_1143":1626,"_1145":1627,"_1147":1628,"_994":1629,"_10":1630,"_1151":1631,"_1153":-5,"_1154":1632,"_579":1633,"_543":1635,"_1159":1636},{"_12":1138},{"_994":1140},"A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.","

A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.

","Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region. Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them. Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively. Mission built on compassion Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017. “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.” But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality. Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem. “The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.” There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.” This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes. Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions. Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs. Life changing air cleaning solution Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively. Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’” That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable. The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges. “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared. The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat. Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.” “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.” When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night. Looking ahead For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes. The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens. Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.” Conclusion Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal. For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.","

Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region.

Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them.

Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively.

Mission built on compassion

Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017.

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.”

But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality.

Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue.

Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues

Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem.

“The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.”

There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.”

This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes.

Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions.

Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs.

Life changing air cleaning solution

Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively.

Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’”

That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable.

The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges.

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared.

$\"\"$

The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat.

Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.”

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.”

When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night.

Looking ahead

For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes.

The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens.

Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.”

Conclusion

Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal.

For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.

","cleaner-air-healthier-kittens-iqair-supports-tiny-but-mighty-rescue","gid://shopify/Article/997882986870","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/cleaner-air-healthier-kittens-iqair-supports-tiny-but-mighty-rescue","2025-01-27T04:00:00Z",[1634,847],"Pets","Cleaner air, healthier kittens: Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue",{"_10":1637,"_246":1638,"_249":1639,"_251":1640,"_247":1641},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/396322505078","Cat resting next to air purifier.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/KittenRescue_Desk_520x500_b51e6557-89fd-41e0-a21b-816616233043.jpg?v=1739826680",520,271,"geoSpotlight",{"_1644":1645,"_2141":2142},"spotlightItems",[1646,2003,2132],{"_12":1647,"_1648":1649,"_1650":1651,"_29":1652,"_1653":1654,"_1657":1658,"_1140":1659,"_10":1664,"_994":1665,"_1666":1667},"Ben Avon AQI Alert","range",75,"markerIconUrl","https://cdn.airvisual.net/assets/marker-images/generic.png","autoGenCustomMarker","location",[1655,1656],-80.0821377,40.5051586,"timestamp","2026-03-23T06:04:25.107Z",{"_249":1660,"_543":1661,"_1662":1663},"https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/unhealthy-for-sensitive-groups","Ben Avon has \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality. See the map and health recommendations.","thumbnail","https://www.iqair.com/dl/app/notifications/Notification_Daily_AQI_Face_03_Orange@3x.png","autoGenCustomMarker:city-5bc822e841fdcdf1939e7d23","unhealthy-for-sensitive-groups","article",{"_543":1668,"_994":1665,"_1141":1669,"_1145":1670,"_1147":1671,"_1154":1672,"_579":1673,"_1136":1674,"_1159":1675,"_989":1679,"_1682":-5,"_1683":-5,"_1684":1685,"_1688":-5,"_1689":-5,"_1690":1691},"When air quality is \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\"","Learn about the risks of this AQI range and protect the vulnerable from potential hazards.","Understanding the \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" AQI Range An Air Quality Index (AQI) between 101-150 is deemed \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.\" Sensitive groups include: Children The Elderly Pregnant People People with cardiac and pulmonary diseases .recommendations-container { border: 1px solid #e5e7eb; border-radius: 12px; background-color: #f9fafb; padding: 24px; color: #111827; font-family: sans-serif; } .recommendations-table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; text-align: center; } .recommendations-table th, .recommendations-table td { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 16px; vertical-align: middle; } .recommendations-title { color: #499fbc; font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.5em; } .recommendation-subheading { font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0; } .recommendation-block { display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; gap: 8px; justify-content: center; padding: 16px 0; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 50px; height: auto; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 18px; text-align: center; } /* Responsive styling */ @media (max-width: 768px) { .recommendations-table, .recommendations-table thead, .recommendations-table tbody, .recommendations-table tr, .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { display: block; width: 100%; } .recommendations-table tr { margin-bottom: 20px; } .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { text-align: center; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; } .recommendation-block { flex-direction: column; align-items: center; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 16px; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 40px; } } HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS How to protect from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups pollution Wear a mask outdoors and indoorsGET A MASK Run an air purifierGET AN AIR PURIFIER Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor airGET A MONITOR Reduce outdoor exercise Protective Measures for Sensitive Groups When air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, everyone is at risk for eye, skin, and throat irritation, as well as respiratory problems. The public should greatly reduce outdoor exertion. While the broader population might still be largely unaffected, sensitive groups are at much greater health risk and should be very cautious. They should avoid all outdoor activity. How can I protect myself when air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality. Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Sensitive groups should stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants","

Understanding the \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" AQI Range

An Air Quality Index (AQI) between 101-150 is deemed \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.\" Sensitive groups include:

Children
The Elderly
Pregnant People
People with cardiac and pulmonary diseases

\n\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS
How to protect from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups pollution
\n \n $\"Mask$ \n Wear a mask outdoors and indoors GET A MASK\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Air$ \n Run an air purifier GET AN AIR PURIFIER\n \n \n
\n \n $\"Monitor$ \n Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor air GET A MONITOR\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Exercise$ \n Reduce outdoor exercise \n \n

Protective Measures for Sensitive Groups

When air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, everyone is at risk for eye, skin, and throat irritation, as well as respiratory problems. The public should greatly reduce outdoor exertion.

While the broader population might still be largely unaffected, sensitive groups are at much greater health risk and should be very cautious. They should avoid all outdoor activity.

How can I protect myself when air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups?

Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality.
Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Sensitive groups should stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants

","2026-01-07T16:17:33Z",[393,1415],{"_12":1138},{"_10":1676,"_246":1677,"_249":1678,"_251":1164,"_247":1165},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/411473314166","Unhealthy Sensitive Group (US AQI)","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQI_Sensitive_Desk_dfa4750d-35bf-4001-b3e6-f4c7c735671c.jpg?v=1767802843",{"_992":1680,"_543":1681},"How to protect yourself against \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality levels.","When air quality is \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups | IQAir","articleResources","aboutIQAir","relatedArticles",{"_1686":1687},"value","[\"what-pollution-measures-should-i-watch-out-for\",\"how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke\",\"which-molds-are-most-dangerous-to-my-health\"]","mobileImage","voiceifyAudio","relatedProducts",{"_1686":1692},{"_1131":1693},[1694,1879],{"_1134":1695,"_10":1696,"_994":1697,"_543":1698,"_992":1699,"_1700":1701,"_1702":214,"_1703":1704,"_1153":-5,"_1705":55,"_1706":1707,"_1711":1712,"_1719":1720,"_1724":1725,"_1141":1769,"_1771":-5,"_1772":1773,"_1775":1776,"_1778":1779,"_1781":1782,"_1784":-5,"_1785":1786,"_1792":1793,"_1796":1797,"_1833":1834,"_1869":1870,"_1873":1874},"Product","gid://shopify/Product/8927570526507","healthpro-plus","HealthPro 250 Air Purifier","Award-winning, medical-grade & gas/odor filtration for medium to large rooms. IQAir's top-selling room air purifier, featuring advanced HyperHEPA filtration for particles of all sizes and V5-Cell filtration for gases and odors. Excellent for allergens, bacteria¹, dust, viruses² and VOCs. The HealthPro 250 model includes smart air monitoring, WiFi app integration, energy-efficient fan, and real-time PM2.5 measurement. Covers up to 990 sq. ft.","descriptionHtml","

Award-winning, medical-grade & gas/odor filtration for medium to large rooms.

IQAir's top-selling room air purifier, featuring advanced HyperHEPA filtration for particles of all sizes and V5-Cell filtration for gases and odors. Excellent for allergens, bacteria¹, dust, viruses² and VOCs. The HealthPro 250 model includes smart air monitoring, WiFi app integration, energy-efficient fan, and real-time PM2.5 measurement. Covers up to 990 sq. ft.

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High-performance, comfortable mask with tight seal for better protection.

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See the map and health recommendations.","https://www.iqair.com/dl/app/notifications/Notification_Daily_AQI_Face_06_Maroon@3x.png","autoGenCustomMarker:city-656d711bb9a8cf89b45f3946","hazardous-air-quality",{"_543":2016,"_994":2014,"_1141":2017,"_1145":2018,"_1147":2019,"_1154":2020,"_579":2021,"_1136":2022,"_1159":2023,"_989":2027,"_1682":-5,"_1683":-5,"_1684":2029,"_1688":-5,"_1689":-5,"_1690":2030},"When air quality is \"Hazardous\"","When the AQI enters the hazardous range, it's time to take serious precautions.","Grasping the Severity of Hazardous AQI An Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 300 is termed \"Hazardous.\" At this extreme, there's a health warning of emergency conditions. The entire population is likely to be severely affected. .recommendations-container { border: 1px solid #e5e7eb; border-radius: 12px; background-color: #f9fafb; padding: 24px; color: #111827; font-family: sans-serif; } .recommendations-table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; text-align: center; } .recommendations-table th, .recommendations-table td { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 16px; vertical-align: middle; } .recommendations-title { color: #499fbc; font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.5em; } .recommendation-subheading { font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0; } .recommendation-block { display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; gap: 8px; justify-content: center; padding: 16px 0; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 50px; height: auto; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 18px; text-align: center; } /* Responsive styling */ @media (max-width: 768px) { .recommendations-table, .recommendations-table thead, .recommendations-table tbody, .recommendations-table tr, .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { display: block; width: 100%; } .recommendations-table tr { margin-bottom: 20px; } .recommendations-table td, .recommendations-table th { text-align: center; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #ccc; } .recommendation-block { flex-direction: column; align-items: center; } .recommendation-text { font-size: 16px; } .recommendation-block img { max-width: 40px; } } HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS How to protect from Hazardous pollution Wear a mask outdoors and indoorsGET A MASK Run an air purifierGET AN AIR PURIFIER Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor airGET A MONITOR Avoid outdoor exercise Protective Measures for Hazardous Air Quality When air quality is hazardous, everyone is at high risk of experiencing strong irritation and negative health effects that could trigger respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. Avoid exercise and remain indoors. Avoid outdoor exercise. It is advisable to wear a pollution mask outdoors and indoors as well. Air purifiers should be turned on. Heed every local health advisory, and ensure homes are sealed effectively against the polluted air. Join the movement! Get a monitor and contribute to air quality data in your city BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR How can I protect myself when air quality is hazardous? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality. Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Note that “Hazardous” pollution levels require a mask even when indoors.Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants. How to best protect from air pollution? Reduce your air pollution exposure Face Mask Air Purifier Air quality monitors /* Ensure full-width container */ .container { width: 100%; } /* Responsive styles */ @media (max-width: 768px) { /* Stack images vertically on smaller screens */ table { width: 100%; display: block; } table tr { display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; } table td { width: 100%; padding: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 20px; } table td img { max-width: 100%; height: auto; } /* Adjust h3 and p for smaller screens */ h3 { font-size: 1.5em; } p { font-size: 1.1em; } }","

Grasping the Severity of Hazardous AQI

An Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 300 is termed \"Hazardous.\" At this extreme, there's a health warning of emergency conditions. The entire population is likely to be severely affected.

\n\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS
How to protect from Hazardous pollution
\n \n $\"Mask$ \n Wear a mask outdoors and indoors GET A MASK\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Air$ \n Run an air purifier GET AN AIR PURIFIER\n \n \n
\n \n $\"Monitor$ \n Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor air GET A MONITOR\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Exercise$ \n Avoid outdoor exercise \n \n

\n

Protective Measures for Hazardous Air Quality

When air quality is hazardous, everyone is at high risk of experiencing strong irritation and negative health effects that could trigger respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses.

Avoid exercise and remain indoors. Avoid outdoor exercise. It is advisable to wear a pollution mask outdoors and indoors as well. Air purifiers should be turned on. Heed every local health advisory, and ensure homes are sealed effectively against the polluted air.

Join the movement!

Get a monitor and contribute to air quality data in your city

BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR

How can I protect myself when air quality is hazardous?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality.
Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Note that “Hazardous” pollution levels require a mask even when indoors.Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants.

How to best protect from air pollution?

Reduce your air pollution exposure

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\n $\"Mask\"$ \n

Face Mask

\n $\"HPP\"$ \n

Air Purifier

\n $\"AV$ \n

Air quality monitors

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