Is the air quality good in Jakarta, Indonesia?
On August 19, 2025, air quality in Jakarta, Indonesia was poor, with an Air Quality Index of 146. This falls into the category of unhealthy for sensitive groups, meaning children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk.
Jakarta, Indonesia on Java Island was the 3rd most polluted major city at 3:30 AM PT (August 19, 2025).
Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. Click here for a more real-time air quality map of Jakarta.
While the air quality conditions on August 19 are unusually poor, it is important to keep in mind that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2024 for Jakarta was 41.7 µg/m³. This corresponds to an AQI of 116, which falls into the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category and was 8.3 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.
Major cities ranking list showing Jakarta, Indonesia as 3rd most polluted city. August 19, 2025 3:30 AM Source: IQAir.
Health experts have advised residents to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and adopt measures to reduce exposure to pollution-related health risks. The situation highlights the urgent need for stronger air pollution controls and public awareness campaigns.
What is causing poor air quality in Jakarta?
The poor air quality in Jakarta can be attributed to several contributing factors:
- High levels of unhealthy emissions from vehicles and industrial activity, particularly during the dry season (1).
- Limited rainfall during Indonesia’s dry season, which runs from June to December, often worsens pollution as particulate matter accumulates in the atmosphere.
- Open burning practices in surrounding areas and regional haze episodes also add to particulate concentrations.
These combined sources have repeatedly placed Jakarta among the most polluted cities globally, especially when weather conditions limit pollutant dispersion.
Hourly forecast of Jakarta, Indonesia on August 19, 3:30 AM. Source: IQAir.
Air quality map of Jakarta, Indonesia as of August 19, 3:30 AM. Source: IQAir.
How can I protect myself from poor air quality?
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.
