Air pollution in London is at its highest level for six years yet again today, after a warning to Londoners from Mayor Sadiq Khan.
Mr Khan took unprecedented steps on Monday to issue a “black” or “very high” warning in parts of London as pollution soared.
High readings for tiny particulate pollution were recorded before 6am on Monday at Sir John Cass’s Foundation Primary School, in the City area, Marylebone Road in Westminster, North Kensington and three sites in Camden - Swiss Cottage, Euston Road and Bloomsbury.
Yet another “black” 10/10 warning was issued on Tuesday in Swiss Cottage. It later dropped to a level nine alert.
The overall "black" warning has been extended until the start of tomorrow, when it will drop to a high alert.
Experts from King’s College London said the 10/10 alert meant “adults and children with lung problems, adults with heart problems, and older people, should avoid strenuous physical activity.”
They added that people with asthma may find they need to use a reliever inhaler more often.
Those in good health were also warned to reduce physical activity outdoors and warned exercising may lead to a sore throat or cough.
On Wednesday pollution is expected to drop to a “high” level.
A spokesman for King’s said: “The wind direction will move from south-westerly to south-easterly though staying fairly light.
“This change in direction brings with it a risk of importing pollution from the near continent.
“This additional import, combined with already elevated levels of local pollution means that widespread 'high' particulate pollution is expected on Wednesday with an small chance of 'very high' at some busy roadside locations.”
Many people took to Twitter to share their views on the issue with some posting videos and images of traffic, including London buses, queuing along busy streets.
Ian Sparks wrote: “Ridiculous - no wonder we have pollution - Nitrogen and wood burner powered buses - loads of em!! (sic)”
He warned that 360 schools are in pollution hotspots.
Pollution in London
Scientists at King’s College London explained that pollution from Europe on Sunday afternoon was followed in the evening by cold, foggy conditions, with little wind to disperse filthy air build-ups.
They added: “The rapid rise in pollution at this time was caused by a combination of traffic pollution and also air pollution from wood burning.”
The Mayor's advisor on toxic air from Public Health England, Dr Yvonne Doyle, said: "Air pollution continues to have a significant impact on people’s health in London but the Mayor and boroughs are working to address it.
"There is more work to be done and we welcome consideration of any initiatives which would improve air quality and the health and wellbeing of Londoners.
“Air pollution is generally not the sole cause of death of individuals, but a contributory factor to deaths from other causes such as heart or lung disease.
"Guidance published by the National Institute Health and Care Excellence will help councils identify the best strategies for cleaning up the air."
