Is the air quality good in Jerusalem?
On August 29, 2025, at 10:00 PM PT, Jerusalem, Israel, is experiencing unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups with an AQI above 110. Some neighborhoods show higher levels, posing risks to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
Air quality is dynamic and can change rapidly. Jerusalem ranked as the 5th most polluted major city on Saturday morning (local time), with nearby Tel Aviv also affected.
Click here for a real-time air quality map of Jerusalem.
While conditions are poor today, the 2024 average PM2.5 concentration in Jerusalem was 15 µg/m³, equating to an AQI of 57 (“moderate”), which is three times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. In contrast, today’s AQI is significantly worse, reflecting a sharp spike in pollution levels compared to the city’s annual average.
Jerusalem, Israel ranked as the 5th most polluted major city on 30 August, 2025. Source: IQAir.
When will the air quality improve in Jerusalem?
Conditions are expected to improve gradually throughout the evening. Hourly forecasts show AQI dropping from 110 to the Moderate range (≈60) by around midnight as wind speed increases, aiding pollutant dispersion.
Hourly air quality forecast for Jerusalem, Israel on 30 August, 2025. Source: IQAir.
Air quality map of Jerusalem, Israel on 30 August, 2025. Source: IQAir.
What is causing poor air quality in Jerusalem?
Jerusalem’s poor air quality stems from a combination of natural and human factors.
Desert dust carried by regional winds frequently contributes to elevated particulate levels. Urban sources, such as emissions from vehicles, industry, and power generation also play a significant role.
Additionally, air stagnation during nighttime and periods of increased cloudiness can trap pollutants close to the surface, triggering spikes in unhealthy conditions.
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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.
