03/04/2014

High Air Pollution Continues To Affect UK

High levels of air pollution are continuing to affect parts of the UK.

According to data from Defra, London and the South East of England are the worst affected areas, with both reaching the maximum level 10, or "very high".

In eastern England, a level nine has been issued, meaning "high", with the north-west, Midlands and south Wales also being affected.

The smog-like conditions are understood to be caused by a mixture of local and continental pollution, as well as dust from the Sahara Desert due to a large wind storm occurring in North Africa.

The difficult conditions have caused problems for people suffering from respiratory and heart problems. In a statement, Defra has warned people with lung and heart problems to avoid strenuous activity outdoors, while those suffering symptoms of pollution – including sore eyes, coughs and sore throats – should reduce the amount of time they spend outside.

Conditions are expected to clear on Friday (4 April).

(JP/MH)

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