City Hall has triggered a ‘high’ air pollution alert in London on Thursday due to an increase in air pollution on from mainland Europe.
Imperial College London forecasters advised City Hall to issue the alert as they are predicting a rise in particulate pollution today due to consistent air flow from mainland Europe, bringing in imported pollutants. Combined with local sources, this may lead to high particulate levels, with limited dispersion due to the light winds.
City Hall issues alerts to Londoners, schools and local boroughs when moderate, high or very high air pollution is forecast. High air pollution alerts are also displayed at public locations across London, including all bus stop countdown signs, as well as on the Underground.
The Deputy Mayor of Environment and Energy, Mete Coban said, “London’s toxic air is responsible for around 4,000 premature deaths in the capital each year, which is why the Mayor has done everything in his power to tackle it.
“We are urging Londoners to look after themselves in this pollution alert, stop their engines idling, and refrain from burning wood or garden waste – all of which contribute to high levels of pollution.
“This is particularly important in order to protect those who are most vulnerable as we continue working to build a safer and greener London for all.”
