16/04/2003

High temperatures bring rise in ozone levels

The warm weather today may be a blessing for sun-worshippers, but it can also have a negative effect for others, the government has warned today.

Environment officials said today that much of southern Britain is at risk of an "unusually early summer smog episode" over the next couple of days, leading to increased ozone levels for the south - particularly London.

The government said that, as some people can be sensitive to ozone, they may experience problems with their breathing.

Avoiding exercise outdoors in the afternoon can reduce exposure to ozone and asthma sufferers should use their 'reliever' inhaler.

High ozone levels are likely to persist until Friday evening in London and the south-east, after which the weather is forecast to become cooler and more changeable.

But Air Quality Minister Alun Michael said periods of high pollution were becoming "less frequent".

He said: "Short periods of high pollution are inevitable with variable weather conditions. Fortunately such episodes are becoming less frequent and severe over the longer term due to the large reductions in polluting emissions from vehicles and industry that have been achieved since 1990.

"We can all help reduce the current high levels of air pollution by avoiding making unnecessary short car journeys wherever possible. By walking, cycling or making use of public transport instead, we can all help to improve current air quality."

Ground level ozone is formed when sunlight acts on nitrogen dioxide and other atmospheric substances close to the ground. The pollutants that cause ground level ozone come from a range of sources, including petrol and other fuels.

(GMcG)

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