We never thought we’d say this, but air quality in Hong Kong is worse than Beijing… for today at least.
According to global monitor AQICN.org, at 4pm today, Hong Kong was recording an air quality index level of 203 (otherwise known as “Very Unhealthy”), while Beijing was basking in blue skies and an index rating of 53 (otherwise known as “Moderate”).
And according to the government’s Air Quality Index figures, eight out the 15 monitoring sites across the territory, including Yuen Long, Sha Tin, Mong Kok, Causeway Bay and Central, are at the “Serious” level, while the remainder sit at a glorious “Very High”.
The Environmental Protection Department is blaming the nasty air on today’s dry, sunny weather and light winds, all of which hinder the dispersion of pollutants and promote the formation of nitrogen dioxide.
Hongkongers, especially the elderly and young children, are warned to avoid outdoor exertion during periods of Very High and Serious pollution levels. Anyone needing advice can visit the Centre for Health Protection website.
The air is, however, expected to improve over the weekend thanks to an easterly airstream.
Just hold your breath until then.
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