|
Press
Releases - 1998
High
roadside APIs forecasted
The Environmental
Protection Department (EPD) made a forecast this morning (Saturday)
that the roadside air pollution index (API) value of today
would be between 70 and 105.
"The
level of nitrogen dioxide has accumulated and remained high
as from last evening at the Causeway Bay Station. It is likely
that the API for the station today will be around 105," the
Principal Environmental Protection Officer, Mr Pang Sik-wing,
said.
"Nitrogen
dioxide mainly comes from motor vehicles, in particular the
diesel vehicles in our urban areas," he said.
"However,
the 'very high' air pollution level today should be very localised
and observed in busy urban streets with very heavy traffic
and surrounded by high-rise buildings. For other places the
air pollution level will be in the 'medium' and '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.
EPD will
issue at 4 pm the measured API for today and the forecast
for tomorrow (Sunday).
Members
of the public can check the API readings on 2827 8541.
End/Saturday,
September 19, 1998
|
