Menu
23/06/2005
Government issues warning on summer 'smog'
The government has warned people to take precautions against summer 'smog'.
High ozone levels have been forecast across a number of areas in England today, including London, the southeast, East Anglia and central England. The high levels are expected to persist until Saturday, after which cooler conditions and more changeable weather are forecast.
High ozone levels can affect the breathing of individuals particularly sensitive to air pollution and those who suffer from heart and lung disease can be particularly affected. Asthma sufferers would not necessarily be automatically affected, but are advised to use their ‘reliever’ inhaler if required.
Local Environmental Quality Minister Ben Bradshaw said: “People sensitive to air pollution should be aware of the heightened risk to their health so they can take sensible precautions, such as avoiding exertion outdoors on hot afternoons.”
Summer smog is caused by the sun acting on substances in the lower atmosphere, such as car fumes and solvents, which produces ground level ozone. Smog can also contain elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide and breathable dust. The pollutants can come from a range of sources, but transport is a major contributor.
Mr Bradshaw said: “We can all help to reduce the current high levels of pollutants by avoiding unnecessary car journeys by walking, cycling and taking public transport instead.”
Mr Bradshaw said that it was estimated that up to 800 premature deaths might have occurred as a result of the poor air quality during the 2003 heatwave.
However, he stressed that such episodes are becoming “less frequent and severe” due to reductions in vehicle and industry pollutions, following the tightening of regulation in the past few decades.
(KMcA/SP)
High ozone levels have been forecast across a number of areas in England today, including London, the southeast, East Anglia and central England. The high levels are expected to persist until Saturday, after which cooler conditions and more changeable weather are forecast.
High ozone levels can affect the breathing of individuals particularly sensitive to air pollution and those who suffer from heart and lung disease can be particularly affected. Asthma sufferers would not necessarily be automatically affected, but are advised to use their ‘reliever’ inhaler if required.
Local Environmental Quality Minister Ben Bradshaw said: “People sensitive to air pollution should be aware of the heightened risk to their health so they can take sensible precautions, such as avoiding exertion outdoors on hot afternoons.”
Summer smog is caused by the sun acting on substances in the lower atmosphere, such as car fumes and solvents, which produces ground level ozone. Smog can also contain elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide and breathable dust. The pollutants can come from a range of sources, but transport is a major contributor.
Mr Bradshaw said: “We can all help to reduce the current high levels of pollutants by avoiding unnecessary car journeys by walking, cycling and taking public transport instead.”
Mr Bradshaw said that it was estimated that up to 800 premature deaths might have occurred as a result of the poor air quality during the 2003 heatwave.
However, he stressed that such episodes are becoming “less frequent and severe” due to reductions in vehicle and industry pollutions, following the tightening of regulation in the past few decades.
(KMcA/SP)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
16 April 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.
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.
02 April 2014
High Levels Of Air Pollution In England And Wales
Public Health England (PHE) scientists are issuing advice for parts of England and Wales. In the last few days, a combination of local emissions, light winds, pollution from the continent and dust blown over from the Sahara caused a spike in the UK Air Quality Index compiled by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
High Levels Of Air Pollution In England And Wales
Public Health England (PHE) scientists are issuing advice for parts of England and Wales. In the last few days, a combination of local emissions, light winds, pollution from the continent and dust blown over from the Sahara caused a spike in the UK Air Quality Index compiled by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
03 April 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".
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".
04 July 2006
Drivers urged to take care in heatwave conditions
Drivers have been urged to take extra care on the roads as continuing high temperatures continue to affect the UK. The Highways Agency has urged motorists to ensure they have drinking water in their vehicle.
Drivers urged to take care in heatwave conditions
Drivers have been urged to take extra care on the roads as continuing high temperatures continue to affect the UK. The Highways Agency has urged motorists to ensure they have drinking water in their vehicle.
04 August 2003
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.
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.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
