Smog blanketed several districts of Kyiv following attacks by the Russian Federation

On September 23 in Kyiv, smoke was reported in several districts of the city following fires caused by Russian attacks. Smog has been observed in the Solomyanskyi, Obolonskyi, and Podilskyi districts, although air quality readings at fixed monitoring stations remain within normal limits for now. Kyiv residents are advised to keep their windows closed and avoid going outside unless necessary.

 

On the morning of September 23 in Kyiv, residents of several districts may have noticed smoke and smog. This was caused by fires that broke out following Russian attacks. As of 12:00 p.m., smoke was observed in the Solomyanskyi, Obolonskyi, and Podilskyi districts.

However, this does not mean that dangerous air pollution has been recorded throughout the entire city. According to the Kyiv City State Administration, air quality indicators at all stationary monitoring stations remain within normal limits. However, the situation may change rapidly. It all depends on how the fires develop, where the smoke drifts, and how quickly they can be extinguished.

What Is the Air Quality Like in Kyiv Right Now?

Experts emphasize that the air quality index reflects the situation at the exact moment of measurement. Therefore, even if the readings are currently within normal limits, they may change within a few hours. At the time of publication, the highest pollution levels were recorded at certain monitoring stations. Specifically, an AQI of 70 was recorded at 14 Ioanna Pavla II Street. On Ronald Reagan Street, 9G, the reading was 65 AQI, and near the “Olimpiyskyi” National Sports Complex, it was 58 AQI.

 

These readings do not mean that the air is equally hazardous throughout the entire district. The data pertains to specific monitoring stations and may vary depending on wind conditions, fires, and other factors. Therefore, city authorities advise people to pay attention to the current readings rather than relying solely on the smell or visibility of smoke.

Who Should Be Especially Cautious

Smoke may pose a greater risk to people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Experts also advise parents of young children, older adults, and pregnant women to be especially cautious.

 

Even if air pollution levels have not reached dangerous levels, prolonged exposure to a smoky environment can cause discomfort. People may experience eye and throat irritation, coughing, or difficulty breathing. If a person has chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, it is best to limit time spent outdoors during smoggy conditions and follow their doctor’s recommendations.

Advice for Kyiv Residents

The Kyiv City State Administration is urging residents of several city districts to temporarily limit their exposure to polluted air. Experts recommend:

 

• keep windows closed and avoid ventilating rooms until the situation improves;
• avoid spending long periods outdoors, especially unless necessary;
• drink enough water to maintain a normal fluid balance;
• if you have an air purifier at home, set it to the highest setting.

If you can already smell smoke in your apartment, you should also check to make sure that windows and doors are tightly closed. People who can work or run errands from home are advised to stay indoors during periods of heavy smoke.

Where to monitor air quality

Air quality conditions can change quite rapidly. Therefore, readings that were accurate during the day may differ by evening. You can monitor air quality and radiation levels in Kyiv in real time through the city’s monitoring system.

Up-to-date data is also available in the “Kyiv Digital” app. This is especially important during fires, as wind direction can quickly change the situation even in neighboring areas.

Smoke is linked to fires following attacks

The current smoke in the capital is the result of fires caused by Russian attacks. After strikes, fires can break out at various locations throughout the city. Smoke from such fires spreads depending on weather conditions, wind direction, and wind speed. That is why residents in one part of the city may see heavy smog, while in another part of the capital, the air quality may remain unchanged.

The Kyiv City State Administration emphasizes that current readings at fixed monitoring stations remain within normal limits. At the same time, the situation may change due to the fires, so Kyiv residents are advised to stay informed and follow experts’ recommendations. For now, the main advice for residents of areas where smoke is visible is to close windows, limit time spent outdoors, and monitor current air quality readings. This was reported by the Kyiv City State Administration’s Department of Environmental Protection and Climate Change Adaptation.

As a result of the enemy attack on Kyiv, the number of casualties has risen to eight; three of them were hospitalized. The other five victims received medical care on-site or as outpatients.