Dresden under fine dust attack: How dangerous is the air today?

Dresden under fine dust attack: How dangerous is the air today?

Air quality in Dresden is always the focus of the public discussion. On June 3, 2025, the measurements at the station on Winckelmannstrasse show that the load due to fine dust (PM10) is still a serious topic. The limit for fine dust is 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, whereby this value may only be exceeded 35 times-a requirement that is difficult to observe in many cities. The current situation in the Saxon state capital reflects a broad trend that the Federal Environment Agency describes here very clear.

In Dresden, the air quality is measured by three main parameters: fine dust, nitrogen dioxide and ozone. The measurement methods are clearly defined: While nitrogen dioxide and ozone are decisive as an hourly means, fine dust measurement takes place as an hourly sliding daily remedy. The different limit values ​​are given special attention: values ​​over 200 micrograms for nitrogen dioxide are classified as "very bad", while fine dust values ​​fall into this category from 100 micrograms. In Europe, by the way, we expect 240,000 early deaths from fine dust pollution, a number that stimulates thinking.

Current measured values ​​and recommendations

If you want to make a knowledgeable manner about the air quality in Dresden, you can conveniently do this via numerous available online portals and apps that offer updated data on fine dust and other pollutants every hour. The air data portal of the Federal Environment Agency offers comprehensive information, including the time processes of the pollutant concentrations and tabular lists of the stress situation at the measurement stations. A free app for Android and iPhone provides information about the values ​​of fine dust, nitrogen dioxide and ozone.

As far as the health recommendations are concerned, particularly sensitive people should be in "poor" quality - if the fine dust is between 51 and 100 micrograms per cubic meter of air - are more inside and avoid physical exertion outdoors. With “moderate” quality, short -term negative health effects are unlikely, but precautions do not remain without meaning.

A look at the causes

Air pollution has many faces. In addition to local transport and industry, weather conditions are also important factors that can affect air quality. After a strong New Year's Eve fireworks, an increase in fine dust pollution can be determined, for example. Around 2050 tons of fine dust are released into the air annually by fireworks - 75 percent of which on New Year's Eve alone. However, this burden is not significant compared to year -round air pollution.

Air quality is not just a question of numbers - it gives an insight into the health of man and nature. With a "bad" or even "very bad" index, the sustainable change of our emissions and the careful handling of the resources are essential. We should provide a better air hand in hand - for ourselves and the coming generations.