Listen to fireworks
How loud are fireworks?
Fireworks are about 150 dB, with a typical range of 140–160 dB. CDC: fireworks show at 140–160 dB close by.
That is about 512 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 1e+09 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 150 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of less than a second; at the top of the range (160 dB) it is less than a second. Peaks above 140 dB can cause instant damage. Wear earplugs or earmuffs, keep your distance and limit time near the source.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as fireworks
More recordings elsewhere
- fireworks exploding 1.wav by soundmary – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Fireworks Crackle by 16FThumaF – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Fireworks, Close, A (H1).wav by InspectorJ – CC BY 4.0 (freesound)
- fireworks 3bursts sizzle.wav by atomwrath – CC BY 3.0 (freesound)
- Fireworks, Crackle, A.wav by InspectorJ – CC BY 4.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels are fireworks?
About 150 dB, with a typical range of 140–160 dB.
Is fireworks louder than a jet engine?
Yes – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while fireworks are about 150 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.
Sources & credits
- CDC – What Noises Cause Hearing Loss?
- Fireworks (Antti Luode) by Antti Luode – CC BY 3.0
- We're Safety Now Haven't We Going Off Like Fireworks by Consumer Product Safety Commission – Public domain