Foggy weather traps severe air pollution across English cities

Air pollution levels surged to critical thresholds in urban areas across England on Monday, November 9, 2026. The spike was driven by a combination of emissions from recent weekend celebrations and stagnant atmospheric conditions. Foggy and windless weather prevented pollutants from dispersing, causing them to accumulate near ground level in major metropolitan centers.

Government monitoring data revealed that 11 sites, predominantly located in London and Greater Manchester, reached the top of the 10-point index for particulate matter during the 24-hour period ending at 10 am. An additional 27 monitoring stations recorded high levels across the capital, the north-west, the Midlands, Yorkshire, and the east of England. These readings indicate a significant deterioration in air quality for residents in these regions.

The most severe reading was recorded in Hillingdon, in west London. Fine particles, known as PM2.5, peaked at a 24-hour average of 129 micrograms per cubic metre. This figure is more than eight times the daily guideline established by the World Health Organization. In the north-west, several locations including Manchester Piccadilly, Wigan, Blackburn, Preston, and Rochdale also registered readings in the very high category.

Particulate matter consists of microscopic solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. Health experts link prolonged exposure to these particles with increased risks of heart disease, lung conditions, and cancer. The current situation poses particular dangers for individuals with pre-existing respiratory issues, such as asthma, which can be triggered by the elevated concentrations.

Jane Burston, CEO of the Clean Air Fund, noted that while monitoring networks cannot pinpoint the exact source of every pollutant, the timing strongly suggests a link to autumn festivities. She explained that the lack of wind and the presence of fog created a trap for emissions from fireworks, bonfires, and Diwali celebrations. Burston warned that people in the worst-affected areas are breathing particulate matter at concentrations five to 10 times above normal annual levels.

Burston urged for improved pollution forecasting, more accessible health alerts, and stricter measures to reduce emissions from wood burning and transport. She argued that if baseline air quality were lower throughout the year, the additional pollution from events like Bonfire Night would be less likely to push levels to extreme heights. She emphasized that the current conditions are dangerous for everyone, not just those with specific health conditions.

Larissa Lockwood, director of campaigns at Global Action Plan, stated that the high pollution levels were expected given the seasonal activities. She highlighted that people are lighting log burners, building bonfires, and setting off fireworks, adding to the normal emissions from transport and industry. Because the fog prevents dispersion, these pollutants remain concentrated in urban areas. Lockwood called for a public health campaign and specific burn alerts to advise residents to avoid using wood burners when levels are high.

A spokesperson for the mayor of London confirmed that a high air pollution alert was issued for Tuesday, November 10, following advice from forecasters at Imperial College London. The alert noted that pollution levels had risen sharply from Friday to Sunday and remained elevated into Monday morning. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Clean Air Greater Manchester pointed out that higher particulate levels are a recurring annual phenomenon around Bonfire Night. They noted that this year, light winds and fog have exacerbated the accumulation of pollutants from various sources. The government has been contacted for further comment on the situation.