The World Meteorological Organization has warned that intensifying heatwaves and wildfires are worsening air quality worldwide. Wildfire smoke is increasing exposure to harmful particles, while heatwaves raise ground-level ozone. The report says climate change and pollution are creating a feedback loop that could further intensify warming and health risks.

New Delhi, September 7, 2026: Rising wildfires and increasingly intense heatwaves fuelled by the climate crisis are undermining improvements in air quality worldwide and creating serious health risks, according to a new report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

Regions that have succeeded in reducing pollution from vehicles and industrial activity are increasingly being exposed to wildfire smoke. At the same time, higher temperatures during severe and prolonged heatwaves are increasing concentrations of ground-level ozone.

Pollution generated by climate-related events can itself contribute to climate change, creating a feedback loop that could intensify warming and further damage air quality.

“Air quality and climate cannot be treated as separate subjects; they are deeply intertwined and have to be treated together,” said Lorenzo Labrador, a scientific officer at the WMO.