There is now a high amount of street dust in the air. Photo: HSY / Saija Korhonen
- Next Article Mellunmäki to get new centre and housing for 800 residents
Air quality has deteriorated across the Helsinki metropolitan area due to rising street dust, with high concentrations recorded in areas with heavy traffic. The dust poses health risks, particularly for people with asthma and heart conditions, but can also cause irritation for healthy individuals.
The Helsinki Region Environmental Services Authority (HSY) monitors air quality and has observed increasing dust levels as dry weather lifts fine particles from roads and pavements.
“Measurements show that street dust is now present across the region. Air quality has been poor at times, especially along busy roads,” said Jarkko Niemi, an air quality specialist at HSY.
Dry and sunny conditions are expected to continue, meaning dust levels may remain high. Rain or snow would help suppress airborne particles by wetting road surfaces.
Street dust consists mainly of ground asphalt and sand used for winter traction. Studded tyres contribute significantly to the problem by wearing down road surfaces.
“Areas with heavy traffic are the worst affected. However, people don’t need to avoid outdoor activities altogether—just one block away from a busy road, the air is much cleaner,” Niemi said.
Although dust problems are most pronounced in major cities, high particle concentrations can also be found in smaller towns and residential areas.
Authorities are tackling the issue through spring street cleaning and by spraying a diluted salt solution on roadsides to reduce dust on the worst days.
Street dust is particularly harmful to young children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or heart conditions. It can aggravate existing symptoms and cause irritation, such as coughing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes or throat.
Niemi offered ten tips to minimise exposure and reduce dust levels:
- Avoid unnecessary driving—walk, cycle, or use public transport.
- Choose studless winter tyres instead of studded ones.
- Follow parking restriction signs to allow efficient street cleaning.
- Avoid high-traffic areas on dusty days and consider using a face mask if needed.
- Exercise away from busy roads—air quality improves significantly just one block away.
- Keep windows closed during dusty periods.
- Dry laundry indoors to prevent dust accumulation.
- Maintain air filters at home and replace them in spring and autumn.
- Remove sand from yards while damp—leaf blowers are banned for this purpose.
- Monitor air quality updates at hsy.fi/ilmanlaatu.
HSY operates 20 monitoring stations across the Helsinki region, providing real-time data on street dust levels at hsy.fi/katupoly.
HT
- Next Article Mellunmäki to get new centre and housing for 800 residents
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
