Is the air quality good in Shanghai?
As of January 15, 2026, at 9:00 PM PT, Shanghai, China, is experiencing very poor air quality with the Air Quality Index (AQI) above 200, placing conditions in the very unhealthy range.
Real‑time monitoring indicates elevated PM2.5 concentrations significantly exceeding the World Health Organization annual guideline, creating dense haze that reduces visibility and poses health risks to the general population.
Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, use air purifiers indoors, and wear protective masks if venturing outside.
Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Shanghai’s air quality map.
While air quality conditions today are poor, it is important to note that Shanghai’s 2024 average PM2.5 concentration was 28.2 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 84 (“moderate”) and 5.64 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.
Shanghai, China, ranked as the 3rd most polluted major city as of January 15, 2026, at 9:00 PM (PT). Source: IQAir.
When will the air quality improve in Shanghai?
Short-term improvements in air quality depend on favorable weather, as winds and rainfall can disperse pollutants within days. However, stagnant conditions and winter temperature inversions often trap smog from October through February, prolonging poor air quality.
Long-term relief will require stricter emission controls, cleaner energy adoption, and effective seasonal policies to prevent recurring winter pollution episodes.
Hourly air quality forecast for Shanghai, China, as of January 15, 2026, at 9:00 PM (PT). Source: IQAir.
Daily air quality trends in Shanghai, China, over the past 30 days. Source: IQAir.
Air quality map of Shanghai, China, as of January 15, 2026, at 9:00 PM (PT). Source: IQAir.
What is causing poor air quality in Shanghai?
Shanghai’s air pollution is driven by a combination of industrial emissions, heavy traffic, and construction dust. Winter weather conditions, including temperature inversions and stagnant air, trap pollutants near the ground, preventing dispersion.
Regional sources, such as emissions from nearby provinces, also contribute to elevated PM2.5 levels. Seasonal smog is a recurring issue during the cold months, affecting public health and urban visibility (1).
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.
