Poland Faces Severe Winter Smog: AQI Exceeds 200 in Multiple Cities
February 10, 2026 - Poland is experiencing one of the worst winter smog episodes of the season, with air quality indexes exceeding 200 ("Very Unhealthy") in several major cities.
Current Conditions
The hardest-hit areas include:
- Krakow: AQI 220 - Valley geography traps pollutants
- Katowice: AQI 245 - Industrial Silesia region most affected
- Warsaw: AQI 185 - Residential heating + traffic combine
- Wroclaw: AQI 165 - Moderate but concerning levels
Primary Causes
Meteorologists attribute the severe pollution to:
- Temperature Inversion - Cold air trapped near ground level
- Coal Heating - Residential coal and wood burning peaks
- Stagnant Air - Lack of wind prevents pollutant dispersion
- Traffic Emissions - Vehicle exhaust compounds the problem
Health Recommendations
Polish health authorities recommend:
- Stay indoors - Especially children, elderly, and those with respiratory conditions
- Use air purifiers - HEPA filters recommended for indoor spaces
- Avoid outdoor exercise - Until conditions improve
- Wear N95 masks - If going outside is necessary
Government Response
The Polish government has activated emergency procedures:
- Free public transport in affected cities
- Temporary restrictions on industrial emissions
- Warnings via SMS and mobile apps
- Extended "Czyste Powietrze" program hours
Long-term Solutions
Experts emphasize the need for:
- Accelerated heating system modernization
- Expansion of district heating networks
- Stricter enforcement of anti-smog resolutions
- Public awareness campaigns