Air quality in Rostock: Is breathing still safe today?

Air quality in Rostock: Is breathing still safe today?

A fresh breeze and bright sunshine – the weather in Rostock on June 13, 2025 has a lot to offer. Meanwhile, exciting data on air quality is being collected at Holbein Square. The measuring station records fine dust particles (PM10) per cubic meter of air and informs citizens about the current air quality. The limit value for PM10 is 50 particles per cubic meter, although this may be exceeded up to 35 times per year. As the Baltic Sea newspaper reports, air quality is assessed based on three key values: fine dust, nitrogen dioxide and ozone.

But what do these values ​​mean for health? The boundaries are clearly defined. Values ​​above 200 μg/m³ for nitrogen dioxide, 100 μg/m³ for particulate matter or 240 μg/m³ for ozone categorize the air as “very bad”. Even with values ​​between 101 and 200 μg/m³ for nitrogen dioxide or 51 to 100 μg/m³ for fine dust, skepticism is warranted: Here we are talking about “bad” air. Fortunately, most people stick to “moderate” levels, where health effects are considered unlikely, but sensitive individuals should act with caution.

Today's weather data

What else is added? At 22 degrees Celsius, a wind speed of 19 km/h and a humidity of 39%, the weather today shows a friendly and warm character for the people of Rostock. A look at the weather data from Iqair highlights the hourly developments. The temperature at 3 p.m. was a pleasant 18 degrees, while the wind was blowing around 20 km/h and the humidity was 45%. The pleasant weather continues in the following hours, with the values ​​remaining constant into the night and the air having a lot to offer.

The importance of looking at air quality is also illustrated by the alarming figures: in the EU there are 240,000 premature deaths every year due to fine dust. The recommendations of the health authorities are therefore: If the air is “bad”, sensitive people should avoid strenuous outdoor activities. The good news is that fresh air can be a source of joy and outdoor activity, especially on days like these.

Fine dust and fireworks

It should not be forgotten that New Year's Eve fireworks cause a significant increase in fine dust pollution. Although this is not particularly noticeable in the general annual values, the reports Baltic Sea newspaper, that around 2050 tons of fine dust are released on New Year's Eve, 75% of which are generated during the fireworks on New Year's Eve. This means that not only does particulate matter levels increase in winter, but health risks also increase during this time. Therefore, it is important to be careful when celebrating outside on New Year's Eve.

Overall, it can be said: Rostock today not only offers the best weather to spend time in, but also the opportunity to deal with the air quality. It is our responsibility to take care of our environment and pay attention to our own health - especially when there is above-average particulate matter pollution. If you have a good hand, you can enjoy the sun's rays and the fresh air to the fullest!