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Press
Releases - 1998
Record
high API for roadside with heavy traffic
The Roadside
Air Pollution Index (API) recorded at Causeway Bay by the
Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (Tuesday)
is 167, the highest since the roadside API was introduced
on June 15, 1998.
High
level of nitrogen dioxide continued to be recorded at the
Causeway Bay Roadside Air Quality Station, which represented
the urban roadside in busy commercial area with very heavy
traffic and surrounded by many tall buildings.
For other
places, including roadsides with less traffic and tall buildings
such as Mong Kok, the air pollution index was 85 and the air
pollution level was in "high" API band.
"The
background ozone level brought in by the moderate northerly
and northeasterly wind still exists. It has enhanced the oxidation
of nitric oxide emitted from diesel vehicles into nitrogen
dioxide. It was accumulated in the busy urban roadside with
heavy traffic and surrounded by tall buildings. The visibility
also continues to be bad," the Principal Environmental Protection
Officer, Mr Pang Sik-wing, explained.
When
a roadside API is between 101 and 200, the pollution level
is in the "very high" band.
"The
current pollution level would have little effect on a healthy
person. However, people 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 minimise physical exercise,
especially energetic or laborious outdoor activities," Mr
Pang said.
The APIs
for the eight general air quality stations were "high", ranging
from 74 to 86.
The weather
for the coming two days is forecasted to be similar. The high
nitrogen dioxide level in urban streets with heavy traffic
and surrounded by tall buildings is likely to remain for some
time. The API forecast for tomorrow (Wednesday) is 70 to 90
for the general air quality stations and 90 to 155 for the
roadside air quality stations.
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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