Hong Kong’s air pollution expected to hit ‘serious’ health risk level for next two days – further complicating National Day
- Index at three monitoring stations reaches ‘serious’ level, with remaining 10 stations at ‘very high’– relief expected this weekend
- Recent sunshine has caused ozone and other particulates to form quickly over the Pearl River Delta
Air pollution is likely to pose a serious health risk for the next two days with hot weather and wind expected to blanket Hong Kong in heavy smog, the city’s environmental watchdog said on Monday.
High levels of ozone have led to the formation of nitrogen dioxide, increasing the chances of respiratory problems, particularly in urban areas, the department said. The smog warning could further complicate National Day on Tuesday, when a number of outdoor rallies in support of, and opposition to, the government are planned.
Air pollutants cause more inflammation and swelling of the airways leading to more airflow obstructions
“With a health risk category in the ‘very high’ range or above, children, the elderly and persons with existing heart or respiratory illnesses are advised to reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities to a minimum or avoid such activities,” the department said in a statement.
At 2pm on Monday, the index at three of the 13 general monitoring stations – including Central, Tung Chung and Tuen Mun – had reached the “serious” level. The remaining 10 stations were at “very high” levels. Roadside monitoring stations in Causeway Bay and Central were also at “serious”, while a roadside station in Mong Kok was “very high”.
The Marine Department on Monday said hazy conditions restricted visibility to less than two nautical miles, or about 3.7km, and issued a reminder to ships to exercise extreme caution and travel at safe speeds while navigating local waters.