Heat wave raises air pollution levels

The UK's heat wave, which is expected to last most of the week, could have a less than positive effect for some people as the sun cooks up a summer smog for southern Britain.

High levels of ozone were recorded yesterday in London and high levels were expected again today in London, southern and central England and south Wales.

It is likely that the high ozone pollution will continue and spread further across England and Wales tomorrow. On Wednesday the extremely high temperatures and easterly air expected for much of England could result in further increases in ozone.

Some people are more sensitive to ozone than others and may begin to notice an effect on their breathing. Avoiding exercise outdoors in the afternoon can reduce exposure to ozone, and people with asthma are not necessarily more sensitive but, if affected, can use their 'reliever' inhaler.

This week's much heralded heatwave should bring Britain's hottest day of the year so far, with Met Office forecasters predicting temperatures in the mid-30s Celsius by mid-week.

Ewen McCallum, Head of Forecasting at the Met Office, said: "We've already had some hot weather this summer but next week could well be hotter still. We could even get within a degree or two of the UK's all time record temperature of 37.1 C but with temperatures that high we can't rule out the odd thunderstorm."

(GMcG)