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)