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Cologne is struggling with strong ozone: the Federal Environment Agency warns of health risks!
High ozone levels in Cologne-Rodenkirchen on August 13, 2025: The Federal Environment Agency recommends that risk groups avoid spending time outdoors.
Cologne is struggling with strong ozone: the Federal Environment Agency warns of health risks!
A look at the air quality in Cologne today, August 13, 2025, shows worrying news. At the measuring station in Cologne-Rodenkirchen, high ozone values of 213 µg/m³ were recorded, which is well above the normal range of 0 – 180 µg/m³. Loud News.de the air quality in the last four hours is classified as “poor” and the air quality index (LQI) is in the red zone. This alert level brings with it the recommendation of the Federal Environment Agency that risk groups should avoid outdoor activities as much as possible.
Today's measurement is not the first of its kind. Over the last three months, maximum values have been documented at various stations in Cologne. A bright spot was July 29, 2025, when the air quality in Cologne-Rodenkirchen was particularly clean at 56 µg/m³.
Ozone pollution in Europe
Cologne's high ozone levels are part of a larger problem that extends beyond the city's borders. Data from the European Environment Agency (EEA) show that many cities in Europe, including Cologne, are struggling with air quality. The European Air Quality Index (EAQI) provides up-to-date information on air quality based on measurements from over 2,000 stations. This interactive platform is crucial for understanding local air quality.
Hans Bruyninckx, Executive Director of the EEA, emphasizes the urgency of taking these values seriously, as air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk in Europe. Respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in particular are the result of poor air quality. A shocking figure from 2023 shows that around 94% of Europe's urban population was exposed to PM2.5 levels above WHO recommendations.
Looking for sustainable solutions
The causes of air pollution are complex and range from road traffic to agriculture to industry. According to an analysis by the EEA, many EU states do not comply with air quality limits. A need for action is seen particularly in urban areas, such as in Cologne. The Air quality report The EEA shows that ozone exceedances were detected in many regions between 2022 and 2024.
In Austria, on the other hand, the EU limit for the daily average value of fine dust (PM10) is adhered to. Nevertheless, the WHO recommendations for PM2.5 have been exceeded across the board. The new EU air quality directive also tightens the limit values, so that new standards must be adhered to from 2030 in order to reduce health risks.
Overall, the alarming ozone levels in Cologne not only highlight the urgency of improving air quality, but also the need for sustainable solutions. The air quality index offers valuable guidance – not just for the people of Cologne, but for all European citizens. Stay healthy and informed!