Dusty winds from mainland China have caused severe air pollution in Hong Kong, with 14 areas reaching ‘serious’ health risk levels. Photo: Eugene LeeOn Monday evening, air pollution levels in over 10 areas of Hong Kong reached the highest health risk categories, as a dusty northerly airstream brought pollutants to the city for the second consecutive day.
The government’s air quality health index (AQHI) had already reached “very high” levels in the morning, climbing to “serious” by late afternoon.
As of 6pm, 14 out of 18 general and roadside stations had reached “serious” levels, including in Central, Causeway Bay, Mong Kok, Tuen Mun, Tai Po and North district.
The remaining stations registered “very high” levels. Conditions remained largely unchanged two hours later.
Meteorological experts said that due to the combined effect of a low-pressure system in mainland China and cold air, strong winds blew dust and other pollutants southward, resulting in serious air pollution in Hong Kong for consecutive days.
As the northeastern monsoon carried particulate pollutants from the mainland, PM10 concentrations across multiple areas in Hong Kong began to surge from Saturday night.
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Air pollution in urban areas such as Central, Eastern and Kwun Tong districts had also hit “very high” health risk levels on Sunday.
The index uses a scale from 1 to 10, with 10+ indicating “serious” levels of air pollution. It is divided into five health risk categories, with “serious” representing the worst possible air quality conditions.
The Observatory predicted that by Wednesday, an easterly wind would ease the current dusty weather.
The Environmental Protection Department has advised the public, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, to minimise physical exertion and outdoor activities, particularly in traffic-congested areas.
Individuals are encouraged to stay indoors and to monitor their health closely. Anyone feeling unwell should seek medical attention promptly.