Forecast for Tuesday 28th July 2026
Widespread Low air pollution across the UK today. However, increased air pollution levels are likely in the vicinity of any significant wildfires, and downwind of their locations. These levels may be significantly higher than those indicated by the forecast maps. Very High levels of air pollution are forecast downwind of the wildfire affecting the Cairngorms.
Widespread Low air pollution. Areas of Moderate in the southeast. Increased air pollution levels are likely in the vicinity of any significant wildfires, as shown across the Cairngorms.
Predominantly Low levels of air pollution. Pockets of Moderate in the south. Increased air pollution levels are likely in the vicinity of any significant wildfires, and downwind of their locations.
Air Pollution Forecast issued by the Met Office on 28 July 2026 at 06:00
Tue 28 July
Wed 29 July
Thu 30 July
Fri 31 July
Sat 1 August
Latest Air Quality Index data from Defra's network of air quality monitoring stations
Most recent data collected at Tuesday 28 July 2026 07:00
Pollution key:
Low 1 Low 2 Low 3 Moderate 4 Moderate 5 Moderate 6 High 7 High 8 High 9 Very High 10
The current data snapshot and forecast levels do not always coincide, for various reasons. Forecasting air quality is an inexact science, even more so than forecasting the weather! Measurement data is very localised, and can be affected by factors specific to the measuring sites. Forecasts are for the maximum levels expected during the day, and not all locations may reach the peak at the same time.
Air pollution remains a significant public health issue in the United Kingdom, contributing to thousands of premature deaths each year. While efforts to reduce harmful emissions have made progress in recent decades, many urban areas still experience pollution levels that exceed recommended safety thresholds.
The primary pollutants of concern include nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and ground-level ozone. These pollutants mostly stem from road traffic, especially diesel vehicles, as well as industrial activity and residential heating.
Exposure to air pollution can lead to a range of serious health problems. Short-term effects may include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with existing respiratory conditions such as asthma. Long-term exposure is linked to more severe outcomes, including heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and the worsening of chronic respiratory diseases.
Research has also shown a connection between air pollution and cognitive decline, suggesting that prolonged exposure may increase the risk of dementia. Moreover, people living in deprived areas often face higher pollution levels, contributing to health inequalities across the country.
This website allows you to view and monitor predicted air pollution levels across the country as well as historical data from the national network of air pollution monitoring stations.