The air quality situation in Jakarta continues to deteriorate. As of 6 am on 5 December 2023, Jakarta appears enveloped in thick fog due to a combination of morning mist and escalating air pollution. According to IQ Air’s latest report (5/12/2023), Jakarta’s air quality index has soared to 159, indicating highly poor air quality, posing severe risks of respiratory issues for everyone.
A video shared by @pakindro captures the thick fog shrouding the Jakarta skyline this morning, sparking concern among numerous individuals. Comments under the video reflect widespread questioning regarding whether the observed fog is solely morning mist or a consequence of pollution.
Furthermore, the levels of air pollution in Jakarta remain unaltered. By 9 am (5/12/2023), the concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5) in Jakarta had surged to three times higher than the WHO’s established safe threshold for air quality.
By 2 pm local time, the air quality in Jakarta showed signs of gradual improvement, dropping to a reading of 99. Between 9 November 2023, and 5 December 2023, Jakarta’s air quality index surpassed 150 on nine occasions. The index tended to decrease during weekends when office activities were limited, and there was reduced public transportation circulation.
Here is the latest data for the air quality index in Jakarta over the past week:
Date | Air Quality Index (Daily Average) | Categories |
Tuesday, 5 December 2023 | 138 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Monday, 4 December 2023 | 153 | Unhealthy |
Sunday, 3 December 2023 | 79 | Moderate |
Saturday, 2 December 2023 | 113 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Friday, 1 December 2023 | 150 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Thursday, 30 November 2023 | 117 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Wednesday, 29 November 2023 | 90 | Moderate |
Tuesday, 28 November 2023 | 150 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Monday, 27 November 2023 | 125 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Although the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasted a decline in air pollution levels in Jakarta due to the onset of the rainy season at the end of 2023, this change has not yet been evident. Throughout December 2023, Jakarta persistently maintained its position as one of the top 30 cities globally with the poorest air quality.