According to the Helsinki Region Environmental Services Authority (HSY), air quality in the Helsinki metropolitan area has suffered due to street dust accumulation.
Several locations have been reported with subpar air quality, particularly in proximity to busy roadways and major traffic arteries. Dense clouds of street dust have been observed, especially in central zones characterized by heavy vehicular activity.
Anu Kousa, an air protection expert at HSY, remarked this week that street dust measurements have drastically surpassed typical levels.
“Dust concentrations have, in some instances, exceeded standard levels by more than tenfold,” Kousa noted.
Street dust primarily comprises fine particles from asphalt and gravel used during sanding, which gather throughout the winter months. As streets dry out in the spring, these particles are released into the atmosphere. Weather plays a crucial role in dust dispersion; rain can briefly minimize airborne dust, whereas dry spells heighten exposure.
The most elevated levels of street dust have been recorded along major transport routes and city roads with ongoing vehicle traffic. There have also been notable increases in the adjoining regions of Uusimaa.
Health officials have reported a rise in symptoms among individuals exposed outdoors. Complaints include nasal irritation, coughing, and eye discomfort. Those with asthma, heart disease, or chronic respiratory issues are at heightened risk. Young children and seniors are particularly vulnerable to increased dust concentrations.
HSY advises against outdoor activities near busy streets during times of high dust levels. Keeping journeys short can help lower exposure.
“Air quality improves even one block away from a congested roadway,” Kousa stated.
To manage dust levels, HSY calls upon municipalities and property owners to employ damp methods for gravel removal. Wet cleaning practices prevent fine particles from becoming airborne.
“Using dry methods for sand removal creates visible dust clouds,” Kousa added.
Cities across the area are currently engaged in spring street cleaning, a process aimed at eliminating sand and debris left over from winter maintenance.
HSY prohibits the utilization of leaf blowers for sand clearance in the Helsinki region, as these tools can disperse large amounts of particles into the atmosphere. Sweeping sand back onto already-cleaned roads is also not allowed.
Alongside municipal initiatives, residents are encouraged to adopt specific strategies to minimize dust exposure and emissions.
Drivers are advised to limit unnecessary car trips and transition from winter tyres to summer tyres when weather conditions allow. Tyres equipped with metal studs contribute to asphalt degradation, generating fine particles that become airborne in the spring.
HSY also suggests keeping windows closed during dusty periods and utilizing high-efficiency air filters at home, which should be regularly checked and replaced.
Additional recommendations include drying clothing indoors and keeping track of current air quality levels through online resources. The HSY air quality map can be accessed HERE
Poor air quality is anticipated to linger into the weekend, contingent on any weather changes. Residents are urged to modify their activities accordingly.