Particulate pollution far above health-protection limits

Particulate (PM) air pollution across Iceland’s Capital Region is reported to be well above health-protection limits, with air quality in some areas classified as unhealthy.

AI Comment from GPT 5:

Particulate matter across the Capital Region is reported to be well above health-protection limits, with some areas reaching unhealthy air quality. Conditions are widespread, and residents—especially sensitive groups—are advised to take precautions.

The related posts help explain how multiple sources and weather patterns can drive spikes like this. Authorities noted that PM near major roads exceeded limits and could persist under calm winds that trap fine dust; dust-binding treatment had already been used and could not be repeated due to a nationwide shortage, and road washing was ruled out because of icing risk, leaving a change in weather as the main short-term relief All Dust Suppressant Sold Out. Past episodes in Reykjavík show that poor air quality has arisen from volcanic gases and haze on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which led to respiratory irritation and increased clinic visits, particularly among older adults and people with lung disease Many have visited health care due to volcanic smog; Volcanic Gases Cause Haze and Breathing Issues. Long-range transport has also driven sharp PM2.5 increases when Canadian wildfire smoke reached Iceland Canadian fine particulate plagues Reykjavík residents, and regional weather can loft dust and sand into the capital, as seen during a South Iceland sandstorm that pushed particulate levels above daily limits Sandstorm caused a cloud over the capital. Even biological and Saharan inputs have been documented under specific wind conditions, adding to airborne loads and affecting sensitive individuals Wind Carries European Birch Pollen to Iceland. Together, these posts underscore that Reykjavík’s high particulate episodes can arise from local road dust under calm weather, volcanic haze, distant wildfire smoke, regional sand and dust, and seasonal pollen, which aligns with the current warning and the guidance for sensitive groups to limit exposure.