Mayor of London triggers ‘high’ air pollution alert

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has triggered a ‘high’ air pollution alert for today as London experiences the effects of pollution and sunny weather with high temperatures.

Imperial College London forecasters advised the Mayor to issue the alert due to a strong likelihood of high ozone levels caused by the hot, sunny weather today and winds blowing pollution from Europe towards London.

Mr Khan said: “We all know the dangers toxic air poses to Londoners, which is why I am doing everything in my power to tackle it.

“Pollution and heat can be a dangerous combination, which is why I’m urging Londoners to look after themselves and each other by choosing to walk, cycle or take public transport, avoid unnecessary car journeys, 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 and help us to build a safer and greener London for all.”

This is the second high air pollution alert this year. The last alert was in January, with one day of high pollution followed by three days of moderate air pollution.

Today is the 201st day of either moderate or high levels of air pollution Londoners have experienced over the past five years. In total there have been 15 high pollution days and 186 moderate pollution days since the start of 2018.

High air pollution alerts are displayed at public locations across London, including all bus stop countdown signs, as well as on the Underground and on roadside signs.

Pictured top: Smog over London in 2015 (Picture: PA)