Cause of dense fog explained

In recent days, the influence of a cold anticyclone has been increasing across Uzbekistan, and this weather pattern is expected to persist until December 5, 2025, the Special Commission reported.

According to the report, starting November 29, the cold anticyclone has intensified, leading to rising atmospheric pressure and falling air temperatures. As a result, nights have been cold while daytime temperatures remain mildly warm. The probability of morning fog, typical for cold anticyclones, is high. Long-term temperature inversions increase the concentration of dust, smoke, and fine particulate matter in the air and contribute to the likelihood of dense fog. This process causes particles to remain in the lower atmospheric layers rather than rising.

The report noted that large-scale efforts have been undertaken in recent days to reduce factors affecting the atmosphere, and these efforts are ongoing. The Special Commission has conducted extensive inspections in Tashkent and the surrounding areas to eliminate sources of pollution. From November 24–28, the following measures were carried out:

Greenhouses:

• A total of 1,449 greenhouses were inspected.
• Operations of 67 greenhouses were suspended.
• Administrative reports were issued against 403 individuals.
• Technical conditions for gas network connections were provided to 19 enterprises.

Construction sites:

• A total of 53 illegal construction sites were identified in Tashkent city.
• Activities at 34 sites were temporarily suspended.
• 186 cases of atmospheric pollution were recorded, with 188 individuals held administratively liable.
• Sprinkler systems were installed at 51 construction sites.

Road Transport:

• 837 drivers were found transporting cargo in open conditions.
• 206 drivers exceeding pollution limits were fined.
• Additional Environmental Measures:
• 77 streets and 165 public areas were watered.
• 121 km of irrigation canals were cleaned.
• 126 fountains were activated.
• 54 cases of illegal sand and gravel extraction from rivers in the Tashkent region were identified.

As a result of these comprehensive measures, air pollution levels have decreased in recent days:

• November 24 — PM2.5: 171 µg/m³
• November 25 — PM2.5: 152 µg/m³
• November 26 — PM2.5: 140 µg/m³
• November 27 — PM2.5: 111 µg/m³
• November 28 — PM2.5: 97 µg/m³

Currently, the country is under the influence of a cold anticyclone, which has intensified temperature inversion events. As a result, fine particulate matter remains suspended in the air, a natural meteorological phenomenon that slows the rate of air cleansing.

For this reason, relevant state agencies are carrying out systematic work not only on short-term measures but also on long-term solutions. Additionally, intensified round-the-clock inspections are being conducted by a working group formed by the Special Commission to identify and eliminate sources of harmful atmospheric emissions.

It is worth noting that previously in Navoiy, 20 enterprises responsible for air pollution were closed.