SARAJEVO, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- Cities across Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) are experiencing a significant decline in air quality due to increased seasonal heating demands and traffic emissions.
As of 3:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, Sarajevo's air quality index (AQI) reached such a level of 357 that PM2.5 concentration was 254 micrograms per cubic meter and PM10 265 micrograms per cubic meter.
The Federal Hydrometeorological Institute in BiH reported that while the weather across the country remains sunny and clear, air quality in several cities, including Ilijas, Maglaj, and Visoko, is classified as "very unhealthy." Other cities such as Zenica, Kakanj, Tuzla and Jajce experienced air quality ranging from unhealthy to moderately polluted.
Environmental experts attributed the pollution levels to increased seasonal heating demands and traffic emissions.
They warned of serious risks to respiratory health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as individuals with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, children, and the elderly.
Experts recommend avoiding outdoor activities entirely under hazardous conditions.
