Tengrinews.kz – Kazhydromet has issued an air quality warning for residents of Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent.
“On May 20, 2025, unfavorable meteorological conditions for air pollution are expected in the cities of Shymkent and Almaty, and at night in Astana,” the statement reads.
Unfavorable meteorological conditions refer to a combination of short-term weather factors (calm winds, weak airflow, fog, and temperature inversion) that contribute to the accumulation of harmful pollutants in the lower layers of the atmosphere.
Inversion is a weather phenomenon where warm air sits above cooler air, effectively trapping it. Normally, the warmer air near the surface rises and carries pollutants away. But during an inversion, the cooler air remains trapped below, along with emissions, dust, and smoke — leading to a buildup of pollution, especially in urban areas.
Weather in Astana
On May 20, the capital will see partly cloudy skies with no precipitation. Southern winds at 3–8 m/s at night, increasing to 9–14 m/s during the day. Temperatures: +8…+10°C at night, +22…+24°C during the day.
Weather in Almaty
On May 20, the city will have partly cloudy weather with no precipitation. Easterly wind at 3–8 m/s. Temperatures: +9…+11°C at night, +22…+24°C during the day.
Weather in Shymkent
On May 20, the city will have mostly clear skies with no precipitation. Southeasterly wind at 3–8 m/s. Temperatures: +12…+14°C at night, +29…+31°C during the day.