14.
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High level of Air Pollution Index recorded
The Environmental Protection Department today (Thursday) recorded the air pollution index values for industrial, urban and new development areas as 90, 84 and 93 respectively.
Slightly worse air quality with forecast index values of 95, 90 and 100 is expected for tomorrow.
Principal Environmental Protection Officer, Mr Tse Chin-wan, said air quality with an index value exceeding 100 was considered to be unhealthy.
"In case the index exceeds 100, some people who are already suffering from asthma, lung or heart illnesses may be adversely affected. They are advised to avoid physical exercise and laborious outdoor activities as far as possible." Mr Tse said. "This air pollution incident was associated with the northeast monsoon which brought in cool and dry air. The windy and dry conditions cause high dust levels.
"According to the monitoring results, this effect appeared to be more serious in areas with more construction activities like Yuen Long and in industrial areas.
"Due to changes in weather, the level of air pollution fluctuates everyday. For a few days a year, the air pollution can be so bad that some people may feel an immediate effect on their health. The air pollution index system is put in place to alert the community when these days occur or about to occur."
Members of the public can check the API readings on 2827 8541.
End/Thursday, November 9, 1995