Feb 24, 2021

High levels of PM2.5 and PM10 during early hours - morning exercisers to protect themselves

It is reported that particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10 levels are very high even during early hours, particularly in winter. This is when there are no activities like construction or movement of vehicles. It is stated that condensation with low temperature leads to the formation of tiny particulate matter which suspended in air is leading to airborne matter.  High dust levels can also be due to the settling of fine particulate matter that got suspended during day time from various activities. Depending upon the size and wind speed, the particles are either carried from other places or taking the time. Temperature inversion can be another factor in delaying the settling of dust particles.

I too observed the air quality index levels in my mobile, which continued to be high in the night and early hours, though, not high compared to daytime levels. 

Another observation is the formation of a fine dust layer on the vehicles parked in garages and inside the houses after a few hours, even after wiping the surfaces in the night.

This indicates poor air that may not be suitable for us even in early morning hours and we can't go for outdoor exercises, particularly in winter. We may also get into respiratory problems by inhalation of condensed moisture as particulate matter. Maybe we have to cover the face with masks to avoid inhalation of harmful matter, not thinking that it is safe as there is no vehicle movement on the roads.