Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, is surrounded by several cities, each with its own air quality index (AQI). The current air quality in the region is a concern, with some areas experiencing moderate levels of pollution, primarily due to particulate matter (PM2.5).
Desenzano del Garda: Moderate Air Quality
Desenzano del Garda, a popular tourist destination on the shores of Lake Garda, currently has an AQI of 58*, which is considered moderate. This AQI is primarily due to PM2.5 levels, which are currently 2.6 times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual air quality guideline value.
For sensitive groups, such as the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions, the following precautions are recommended:
- Reduce outdoor exercise
- Close windows and run air purifiers
- Wear masks when outdoors
Riva del Garda: Moderate Air Quality
Riva del Garda, another city on the banks of Lake Garda, has a current AQI of 51, also considered moderate. The PM2.5 concentration in Riva del Garda is currently 1.2 times the WHO annual air quality guideline value. Similar precautions to those recommended for Desenzano del Garda are advised for sensitive groups.
Northern Italy’s Air Pollution Woes
The northern region of Italy, where Lake Garda is located, is among the worst areas in Europe for polluted air, according to new data from the European Environment Agency. Cremona in Lombardy has placed next to last for the average levels of fine particulate matter known as PM2.5.
This pollution is primarily due to the region’s industrial centers and geographical locations with low wind levels, which cause air pollution to concentrate. The table below shows the ranking of the most polluted cities in Europe:
| Rank | City | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nowy Sącz | Poland |
| 2 | Cremona | Italy |
| 3 | Slavonski Brod | Croatia |
Monitoring Air Quality Around Lake Garda
To monitor air quality in your area around Lake Garda, you can check the nearby pollution monitors on Weather Underground, which provide real-time data on PM2.5 levels and other pollutants. Tomorrow.io also provides air quality and pollen forecasts for Garda, Veneto, Italy, with pollutant levels and pollen indexes.
By staying informed about the air quality in the Lake Garda region, you can make informed decisions about your outdoor activities and take necessary precautions to protect your health.
Conclusion
The air quality around Lake Garda is a concern, with some areas experiencing moderate levels of pollution, primarily due to particulate matter (PM2.5). Sensitive groups are advised to take precautions, such as reducing outdoor exercise, closing windows, and wearing masks when outdoors. Monitoring air quality through reliable sources can help you stay informed and make informed decisions about your activities in the region.
Reference:
– IQAir: Desenzano del Garda Air Quality
– The Local: Italy’s Northern Cities Among the Worst in Europe for Air Pollution
– Weather Underground: Air Quality in Garda, Italy
– Tomorrow.io: Air Quality and Pollen Forecast for Garda, Veneto, Italy
– IQAir: Riva del Garda Air Quality