According to IQAir’s real-time monitoring data, Hanoi topped the global ranking with an AQI of 244, followed by Kolkata in India at 239. By 9.30 am, many parts of the capital recorded purple levels, including 249 at Cua Nam, 253 in Hai Ba Trung and 272 in Xuan La.
Hanoi continues to face serious air pollution
The Environment Department’s monitoring system reported an AQI of 230 at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology station at 9.30 am, indicating very poor air quality and serious health risks. At the same time, readings were 189 on Nguyen Van Cu Street and 164 at Nhan Chinh Park-Khuat Duy Tien.
The department forecast December 11 to be one of the most polluted days of the period, with provinces including Ninh Binh, Lang Son, Bac Ninh, Haiphong, Quang Ninh and Thanh Hoa likely to face very bad air quality.
Air pollution can pose serious health risks
Health authorities advised residents with eye irritation, coughing or sore throat to limit outdoor activity. Students may go outside but should avoid prolonged exercise. Sensitive groups were urged to reduce strenuous activity, while asthma patients may need to use medication more frequently.
Many Hanoi residents reported noticing heavy smog in recent days, with a milky haze blanketing streets in the early morning.
