Wildfires, Heatwaves And Growing Air Quality Risks At High Levels, Warns WMO
Wildfires, Heatwaves And Growing Air Quality Risks At High Levels, Warns WMO
By CCN News | Published: Sep 07, 2026 (IST)
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Wildfires and heatwaves are adding to air quality risks in several parts of the world, according to the World Meteorological Organization's (WMO) Air Quality and Climate Bulletin released Sept. 7.
The report examines data from 2025 and describes the links between air pollution and climate. It says pollutants and greenhouse gases can be released by some of the same activities. Climate conditions can also change how pollutants form, move and remain in the atmosphere.
The bulletin uses information from the WMO Global Atmosphere Watch network and scientific studies. It calls for stronger atmospheric observations, including measurements of fine particulate matter, ground-level ozone, black carbon and other aerosols.
2025 PM2.5 Patterns Varied Across Regions
PM2.5 refers to particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers. WMO describes these particles as a health hazard because they can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
Four modelling products reviewed in the bulletin showed broadly consistent PM2.5 patterns for 2025. They indicated higher-than-average concentrations in northern Canada and around Lake Baikal in the Russian Federation, where WMO linked the results to increased wildfire activity.
The models also showed positive PM2.5 anomalies in India. WMO associated these results with biomass burning and other increases in human-related pollution. China showed negative PM2.5 anomalies, which the report linked to declining anthropogenic emissions.
Wildfire Smoke And Ozone Create Health Concerns
The bulletin cites research estimating that extreme fire-smoke events have tripled globally since the 1990s. A study cited by WMO estimated about 99,000 additional deaths each year from acute exposure to fire-related PM2.5 during 2010-18. This is a research estimate, not a direct count of individual deaths.
WMO also examines ground-level ozone. The report says warmer conditions, stagnant air and strong sunlight can promote ozone formation. It cites research showing that the share of the global population exposed to peak-season ozone above 32.4 parts per billion rose from less than 20% in 1850-59 to more than 90% in 2005-14.
Monitoring Gaps Limit Global Assessment
The bulletin says atmospheric pollutants can travel long distances and cross national boundaries. It highlights gaps in continuous monitoring, particularly in some regions.
WMO also examines aerosol deposition, including black carbon, dust and atmospheric microplastics. It says particles deposited on snow and ice can reduce surface reflectivity and contribute to increased melting.
The report calls for sustained measurements from ground stations, satellites and other observing systems. Such data can improve understanding of pollution, support forecasts and help assess exposure to air-quality hazards.
The findings are consistent with the World Health Organization's 2021 global air quality guidelines, which cover PM2.5, PM10, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide.
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