The air quality in the capital reached purple level at 8am, meaning that it is very harmful to health, surpassing the two hotspots Delhi of India and Lahore of Pakistan.

The US Embassy’s air quality monitoring system reported even worse levels at monitoring stations in Tay Ho District and Dong Anh District, with air pollution reaching very unhealthy levels. Other stations recorded levels in the red zone.

Besides Hanoi, other provinces such as Thai Nguyen, Bac Giang, Bac Ninh, Thai Binh, Ha Nam, Hung Yen, and Hai Duong also recorded severe air pollution.

It is predicted that poor air pollution will continue to last over the next two days in Hanoi and other northern provinces.

Hanoi has frequently ranked among the most polluted cities in the world, especially during the winter and early spring months.

The primary causes of air pollution in Hanoi include fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from transportation, construction, industrial activities, and waste burning. In addition, weather conditions such as temperature inversion during winter contribute to trapping pollutants in the air, exacerbating pollution levels.

According to data from the World Bank, approximately 5,800 people in Hanoi die annually from diseases related to fine dust pollution.

In such poorly polluted air conditions, local residents are advised to refrain from venturing outside unless necessary. Adults, children, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from respiratory diseases have all been recommended to wear masks and glasses in the event that they go outside.

Air quality in northern Vietnam reaches unhealthy levels

VOV.VN - Air pollution engulfed Hanoi along with several neighbouring northern provinces on the morning of December 16, according to reports issued by independent air quality trackers.