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As the sandstorm from Northern China is moving southward with the northeast monsoon and is now affecting Hong Kong, the Air Pollution Index (API) is expected to reach the "very high" or "severe" level today (March 22) and the API reading will possibly record 180 or above, a spokesman for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said.
The spokesman said when the API exceeded 100 ("very high" level), those people who were sensitive to air pollution (such as people with respiratory or heart illnesses) would be affected. People with such illnesses should reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities (especially in areas with serious air pollution problems such as roadsides with heavy traffic).
In the case of the API exceeding 200 ("severe" level), people with existing heart or respiratory illnesses may experience significant aggravation of their symptoms and there will be also widespread symptoms in the healthy population. These include eye irritation, coughing, phlegm and sore throat. People should reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities. They should seek advice from a medical doctor if they feel uncomfortable.
The spokesman said the API was expected to remain at the "very high" or "severe" level today. EPD will closely liaise with the Hong Kong Observatory and other concerned departments to monitor the change in weather condition and air quality in a bid to provide the public with the most updated information on air quality.
Ends/Monday, March 22, 2010
Issued at HKT 02:36
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