Air pollution expected to be high in Deeside today

Deeside is experiencing higher than average levels of air pollution today with the Daily Air Quality Index hitting 7 and 8 in the region.

The north West of England appears to be the most affected region, Chester is forecast to hit a high 8 on the index while pollution levels start to ease towards north east Wales.

A health alert has been issued across Britain as potentially dangerous clouds of air pollution drift in from Europe.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) said it was mixing with home-grown smog to create a toxic hazard.

A spokesperson for DEFRA said:

“Winds bringing in pollution from the continent, combined with locally-generated pollution and still weather conditions has led to some high pollution measurements across the UK.”

The conditions could trigger problems for people with respiratory conditions, the elderly and the young officials warn.

Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms.

People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often. Older people should also reduce physical exertion warns Defra’s website.

While anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, cough or sore throat should consider reducing activity, particularly outdoors.

Conditions will ease on Friday dropping back to an average 4 on the index, which is standard for Deeside.