HIGH levels of air pollution (particulate matter) are currently being monitored in the Armagh, Newry, Lisburn, Belfast, and Derry/Londonderry areas.
In addition, there are moderate levels of pollution being monitored in the North Down, Ballymena, Strabane and Lough Navar areas.
The pollution is the result of easterly airflows which are recirculating polluted air from England, Wales and Continental Europe over Northern Ireland, along with the build up of local emissions from vehicles and home heating. Pollutant levels are expected to decline from tomorrow.
During periods of High Air Pollution the symptoms of people with lung or heart disease may worsen. Healthy people are unlikely to experience any ill effects.
Hourly updates on levels of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide are available on the Department’s website and the Department’s freephone helpline 0800 556 677, which also offers health advice to those who may be particularly sensitive to air pollution.
