The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has assured the public that it is attending to reports of a strong sulphurous odour detected in various parts of Gauteng, particularly in Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg.
The department has confirmed that the stench experienced by residents in these areas is likely caused by hydrogen sulphide (H₂S).
“DFFE wishes to assure the public that the matter is receiving attention.”
The department received reports of the strong sulphurous odour in Gauteng on 10 March 2026.
Air quality monitoring information from the South African Air Quality Information System (SAAQIS https://saaqis.environment.gov.za/ ) showed that levels of sulphur dioxide, while elevated, remained in compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards during this period.
“For hydrogen sulphide, monitoring data also showed elevated peaks, especially in Secunda, Springs, Irene (Pretoria), Midstream and Buccleuch air quality monitoring stations.
“Although there are no National Ambient Air Quality Standards for hydrogen sulphide for now, these pollution levels were all significantly higher than the World Health Organisation recommended threshold for ambient nuisance odour of 5.02 parts per billion.
“Based on these observations, it is highly likely that complaints raised by the public were prompted by elevated levels of hydrogen sulphide,” the department explained.
Meteorological conditions show prevailing south-easterly winds that allowed for the transportation of air pollution from Mpumalanga into Gauteng, particularly over the cities of Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Health effects of Hydrogen Sulphide (H₂S)
Exposure to hydrogen sulphide may irritate the eyes and respiratory system.
Other possible health effects include dizziness, headaches, nausea and stomach upset, weakness, irritability, and breathing difficulties.
In severe cases, high exposure may lead to convulsions, loss of consciousness, or respiratory complications.
Children may be particularly vulnerable because they breathe more rapidly, relative to their body size, and may therefore receive higher exposure levels than adults in the same environment.
The department, therefore, urges members of the public in affected areas to report persistent strong odours to local environmental health authorities or health authorities.
“Avoid prolonged exposure if strong odours are present. Seek medical attention if experiencing persistent respiratory discomfort or irritation.
“The department will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with provincial and municipal authorities to identify the sources of emissions and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.”
Legislative improvements
Following a similar sulphurous odour episode experienced in 2022 across Mpumalanga and Gauteng, the government identified and is currently implementing two key legislative measures.
They are aimed at tightening minimum emission standards and introducing hydrogen sulphide as a criteria pollutant.
“Government is tightening the minimum emission standards for hydrogen sulphide in coal gasification processes to significantly reduce emissions.
“The department is also in the process of introducing hydrogen sulphide as a criteria pollutant under the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act."
This will allow South Africa to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards for hydrogen sulphide, aligned with international health protection guidelines.
Consultations with provinces and municipalities on these standards are currently underway. -SAnews.gov.za
