The atmosphere in Antananarivo has remained unbreathable for over a week. Alerts are piling up, and the Malagasy capital is facing pollution levels that are causing serious concern among scientists and monitoring authorities.

According to the Madagascar weather bulletin covering the period from October 24 to 31, 2025, the concentration of PM2.5 fine particles — those with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers and capable of penetrating deep into the lungs — reached up to seven times the threshold recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) , set at 15 µg/m³.

A critical situation was recorded on October 30, with a peak measured on several monitoring stations, making the air “unhealthy for everyone” and placing the city in a red zone in terms of public health.

A lull that never comes

Unfortunately, the situation did not improve in the following days. The bulletin covering the period from October 27 to November 3, 2025, confirms persistent pollution, classified as “unhealthy for sensitive individuals” .

In Ampandrianomby (DGM), Andraharo (UNICEF), Soanierana (CNRE) and Ambatobe (MADA-AQ), PM2.5 concentrations remain four times higher than national and international standards , illustrating a lasting phenomenon rather than an isolated episode.

A few showers, but a fragile improvement

Forecasters predict weather conditions will continue to favor the accumulation of pollutants over the next few days. A few local showers might provide temporary relief , but without heavy and consistent rainfall, air quality is expected to remain poor for vulnerable populations —children, the elderly, those with respiratory illnesses, and pregnant women.

A silent health emergency

In this heavy atmosphere, doctors recommend reducing outdoor activities, ventilating homes during the least polluted hours, and, for those most exposed, considering wearing respiratory protection.

Antananarivo, like other major African capitals, faces a significant environmental challenge. And as residents struggle to breathe, the issue of sustainable air management is once again at the forefront of public debate.