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Press
Releases - 1998
API
"very high" for roadside
The Environmental
Protection Department (EPD) made a forecast this morning (Monday)
that the roadside air pollution index (API) value of today
would be between 90 and 120.
"The
level of nitrogen dioxide has persisted and remained high
at the Causeway Bay Station," the Principal Environmental
Protection Officer, Mr Pang Sik-wing, said.
"The
prevailing wind has brought a background ozone level to Hong
Kong. This ozone has enhanced the oxidation of nitric oxide
emitted from diesel vehicles into nitrogen dioxide. At the
same time, visibility is also poor despite of the sunny weather.
This is typical photochemical smog," he said.
Very
high air pollution level would be observed in busy urban streets
with very heavy traffic and surrounded by high-rise buildings
because the nitrogen dioxide would not be dispersed quickly.
For other areas, the general air pollution level would be
in the "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
monitor closely the situation and issue at 4 pm the measured
API for today and the forecast for tomorrow (Tuesday).
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/Monday,
September 21, 1998
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