Yerevan choked by heavy smog as experts warn of health risks

A persistent blanket of smog has settled over Yerevan in recent days, prompting growing alarm from residents, physicians and environmental specialists who say the capital is experiencing one of its most severe air-pollution episodes in recent years.

Social media users have described the air as “unbearably heavy,” “toxic” and “so thick it feels like constant fog.” Many report eye irritation, coughing and an acrid smell hanging over the city.

According to the Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center, the pollution spike is linked to a stationary anticyclone that has stalled over the Ararat Valley, halting air circulation and trapping cold, stagnant air. The agency says that between November 17 and 25, dust concentrations in parts of Yerevan exceeded the maximum norms by 1.4 to 4 times. Nitrogen dioxide levels rose above the standard in several central districts, while sulfur dioxide remained within limits.

Environmental experts, however, say the official monitoring network is too limited to fully assess the scale and source of the pollution. Geographer and Armenian Environmental Front co-founder Levon Galstyan told Panorama.am that the government measures only a few parameters at a handful of locations, making comprehensive analysis impossible.

“Pollution sources are diverse, including vehicles, construction, non-metallic mines,” Galstyan said. “To understand what we’re breathing, we need reliable baseline data across many points. With only a couple of monitoring stations in the city center, you cannot draw serious conclusions.”

Galstyan noted that Yerevan’s bowl-shaped topography and seasonal weather patterns worsen pollution during colder months, when the valley’s evening winds weaken. He added that open burning, including crop residue fires on the Ararat Plain, further contributes to the haze.

Doctors say the smog is especially dangerous for people with chronic respiratory diseases. Allergologist Sevan Iritsyan warned that those with asthma, bronchitis and other conditions should limit outdoor exposure, use air purifiers indoors and wear masks in highly polluted areas.

“Even without a surge in patient visits yet, long-term exposure will strain the health care system,” Iritsyan said. “Recovery from seasonal viral infections may also be slower.”

Consumer rights advocate Babken Pipoyan said the health effects will carry financial consequences for households and argued that environmental mismanagement is now a nationwide concern, not limited to the capital.

“Yerevan is facing an environmental disaster, but the problem extends beyond the city,” he said. “From waste-management failures to rapid construction and the replacement of mature trees with decorative ones, the factors are many. Look at cancer statistics, serious questions must be addressed to the Health Ministry.”

Pipoyan criticized public agencies for prioritizing image over meaningful policy. “Our institutions invest resources in creating appearances rather than serving public welfare,” he said.