Smog over the capital of Małopolska has reached levels that pose a real threat to health. What exactly happened that day and what are the consequences of breathing such polluted air?
On January 20, Kraków was recognized as the city with the worst air quality in the world. Concentrations of suspended dust many times exceeded the permissible standards: in the case of PM10 o 546 percentand even more dangerous PM2.5 by as much as 1,383 percent. These are levels that experts say pose a serious health risk to all residents, not just those with chronic diseases. Very poor air quality continued for the following days, today is also not satisfactory, although the concentration of suspended dust has decreased.
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In response to the terrible conditions, the city introduced free public transportencouraging people to give up cars. The authorities and sanitary services also appealed to: avoiding prolonged exposure to the outdoors, limiting outdoor physical activity and closing windows. The smog was visible to the naked eye, and in many districts the air had a characteristic, pungent smell.
is a mixture of air pollutants, including PM10 and PM2.5 suspended dust and harmful gases. The smallest particles, PM2.5, are particularly dangerous because they easily penetrate the lungs and then into the bloodstream. At such high concentrations, the body is unable to defend itself effectively. Long-term breathing of polluted air burdens practically the entire body. Smog doesn’t just affect your breathing. Its effects are much broader and are often felt only after some time.
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Exposure to high concentrations of dust may cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, coughing, shortness of breath and headaches. For people with asthma, COPD or heart disease, smog may exacerbate symptomsand even hospitalization. Children, seniors and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. Research also indicates long-term consequences, such as an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, strokes, heart attacks and even lung cancer. Regular contact with smog may weaken immunity and negatively affect the nervous system, impairing concentration and well-being.
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During episodes such as the one on January 20 in Krakow, it is best to limit leaving home to a minimum. If exit is necessary, it is worth considering wearing anti-smog masks with appropriate filters. At home, it is recommended to use air purifiers and ventilate rooms only when the air quality improves significantly.
