Press Releases

Press Releases - 1998

"Very High" API forecasted

The Environmental Protection Department today (Tuesday) forecasted that the Air Pollution Index (API) later today would reach 80 to 105 for the roadside stations, and 55 to 75 for the general ambient stations.

When the roadside API exceeds 100 and reaches the "very high" band, people with heart or respiratory illnesses should avoid prolonged stay in roads and streets with heavy traffic, Principal Environmental Protection Officer, Mr Leung Pak-ming said.

"If it is necessary to stay in such places, they should reduce physical exertion as far as possible," he said.

However, Mr Leung said there was no need for the general public to take any special measure.

He said that since the nitrogen dioxide in vehicle emissions, particularly from diesel vehicles, was not dispersing sufficiently under the very still wind conditions, air pollution at the urban roadside with very heavy traffic and surrounded by high-rise buildings has thus risen and reached the "very high" band.

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, December 29, 1998

 

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