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Press
Releases - 1998
API
continues to be "very high" for busy roadside
The Environmental
Protection Department (EPD) made a forecast this morning (Tuesday)
that the roadside air pollution index (API) value of today
would be between 90 and 150.
"The
nitrogen dioxide at the Causeway Bay station has been slightly
higher than yesterday and will likely have an API of 150 today.
The air pollution index at other general stations would likely
be between 65 to 85," the Principal Environmental Protection
Officer, Mr Pang Sik-wing, said.
Very
high air pollution level would be observed in busy urban streets
with very heavy traffic and surrounded by high-rise buildings
because the nitrogen dioxide would not be dispersed quickly.
For other areas, the general air pollution level would be
in the "high" API band.
"It is
not necessary for the general public to take special precautionary
action. However, persons with existing heart or respiratory
illnesses are advised to avoid prolonged stay in areas with
heavy traffic. If it is necessary to stay in these streets
or roads, they are advised to reduce physical exertion as
far as possible," Mr Pang added.
The air
pollution is likely to remain for a few days depending on
the weather conditions. EPD will monitor closely the situation
and issue at 4 pm the measured API for today and the forecast
for tomorrow (Wednesday).
Members
of the public can check the API readings on 2827 8541 or from
EPD's website at http://www.info.gov.hk/epd/.
End/Tuesday,
September 22, 1998
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