Air Quality Index (AQI) in South Africa 🇿🇦
Live Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Levels in South Africa
Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Pretoria, the capital of South Africa, is measured at a score of 74. According to the US EPA health standard, this air quality rating is categorized as Moderate. The current atmosphere in Pretoria is influenced by a PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) concentration of 21.5 µg/m³ and PM10 levels recorded at 21.5 µg/m³. Monitoring of gaseous pollutants shows Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) at 17.6 µg/m³.
Beyond the primary urban hubs, atmospheric conditions and smog levels fluctuate across South Africa based on industrial output, traffic density, and local weather patterns. Real-time pollution data and respiratory health alerts are also being actively monitored in cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Soweto and Port Elizabeth. Tracking these air quality metrics is essential for residents nationwide to manage outdoor exposure and maintain respiratory safety during periods of increased particulate concentration.
South Africa Air Quality: Major Cities Index
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Pollution Monitor & AQI Forecast: South Africa Regions
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* Air Quality Index (AQI) data for South Africa is calculated using the US EPA standard. Information is processed from multiple monitoring stations detecting PM2.5, PM10, and gaseous pollutants to ensure accuracy for respiratory health planning.
Browse Air Quality in South Africa by cities in alphabetical order:
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Quality in South Africa
What is the air quality in South Africa right now?
The current AQI in Pretoria (capital of South Africa) is 74 — categorised as Moderate. Conditions vary across the country — see AQI for all cities for a complete picture.
Which city in South Africa has the worst air quality right now?
Right now, Cape Town has the highest AQI reading in South Africa at 152 (Unhealthy).
Which city in South Africa has the best air quality right now?
Richards Bay currently has the lowest AQI in South Africa at 31 (Good).
What is the PM2.5 level in Pretoria today?
The PM2.5 (fine particulate) concentration in Pretoria, the capital of South Africa, is currently 21.5 µg/m³. The WHO 24-hour guideline is 15 µg/m³.
Is the air in South Africa safe to breathe today?
Roughly 23% of monitored cities in South Africa show unhealthy air-quality readings — sensitive groups should take precautions.
What are the cleanest cities in South Africa right now?
Top 5 cities in South Africa with the best (lowest) AQI right now:
- Richards Bay: AQI 31 — Good
- Bloemfontein: AQI 35 — Good
- Uitenhage: AQI 35 — Good
- Durban: AQI 46 — Good
- Vanderbijlpark: AQI 47 — Good
What are the most polluted cities in South Africa right now?
Top 5 cities in South Africa with the worst (highest) AQI right now:
- Cape Town: AQI 152 — Unhealthy
- Johannesburg: AQI 143 — Unhealthy (Sensitive)
- Diepsloot: AQI 143 — Unhealthy (Sensitive)
- Randburg: AQI 143 — Unhealthy (Sensitive)
- Roodepoort: AQI 143 — Unhealthy (Sensitive)
Air Quality Scales & Resources
Wondering what these AQI numbers mean for your health? Our worldwide air quality guide explains every level of the AQI, PM2.5, PM10, ozone, NO2, CO and SO2 scales, with practical health advice for each range.
→ Understanding Air Quality Levels: read the full guide