National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The deterioration in air quality was caused by falling temperatures, very light winds and the accumulation of air masses that had formed over the city and neighbouring areas around Tashkent. These conditions restricted the dispersion of pollutants, causing locally emitted pollutants to remain trapped in the near-surface layer of the atmosphere.

In addition, overnight, specialists from the National Centre for Environmental Monitoring conducted instrumental measurements of ambient air quality in the Yunusabad, Almazar, Yangihayot, Sergeli and Yashnabad districts. At all monitoring sites, PM2.5 concentrations corresponded to the “Very Unhealthy” category.

According to forecasts, during the daytime on 28 October, air quality in Tashkent is expected to remain at the “Unhealthy” level according to the international AQI. Under the national air quality index, conditions are expected to be predominantly at the “Yellow” level, with occasional periods at the “Orange” level. Air quality may also remain “Unhealthy” in the evening.

People belonging to sensitive groups, particularly children, older people, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, are advised to avoid going outdoors in the evening and at night whenever possible. If going outside is necessary, they should wear a protective mask and avoid spending prolonged periods outdoors. Keeping windows closed during the evening and night is also recommended.