Rush for masks and air purifiers as smog shrouds northern China

Dangerous smog which has blighted swathes of northern China in recent days has prompted a spike in air purifier sales, local media reported on Monday, as pollution continued to shroud Beijing.

China’s National Meteorological Centre issued a “yellow” smog alert for much of the country’s north on Monday, the fifth consecutive day of heavy pollution which has slashed visibility and seen pollution reach hazardous levels.

The smog has prompted a rush by consumers to buy face masks and air purifiers, state-run China National Radio reported, with sales of the machines tripling in recent days at one Beijing electronics store, it said citing a store employee.

Beijing issued an “orange” pollution alert on Friday - the second-highest on the scale - leading to orders for manufacturing plants in the city to cut production, while building work has been halted and barbeques curbed.

Physical education classes and outdoor exercises at schools have also been called off, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.