Riga air quality worsens with autumn weather, officials warn vulnerable groups

As autumn sets in, air quality in Riga has begun to deteriorate, the city municipality's External Communications Department told the LETA news agency. Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels have risen at times, and forecasts from the "Riga airTEXT" system point to poor air quality in several parts of the capital over the coming days.

Who is most at risk

Municipal officials explain that elevated pollution poses the greatest risk to sensitive groups, including children, seniors, people with asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions, and those with cardiovascular disease. During periods of poor air quality, these residents are advised to monitor how they feel and avoid prolonged, intense physical activity outdoors, particularly in areas with heavy traffic.

Why autumn brings worse air

Specialists point to a combination of factors behind the seasonal decline. As temperatures drop, temperature inversions become more frequent, trapping pollutants closer to the ground instead of allowing them to disperse. The start of the heating season also increases emissions from building heating systems, which can raise concentrations of fine particulate matter, including PM₂.₅. A lack of wind and prolonged stable weather further encourage pollution buildup, while NO₂ levels in the city are strongly driven by vehicle emissions, whose impact intensifies when air circulation is restricted.

Where to check forecasts

Three-day air quality forecasts for Riga are available through the "Riga airTEXT" system at rigaairtext.lv. The municipality is urging residents, especially those in sensitive groups, to monitor these forecasts in the coming days and plan prolonged or intense outdoor activities accordingly.