Very High levels of air pollution (particulate matter) were monitored between 14.30 on Sunday the 28th of December and 05.00 on Monday 29th December in Newry.

A High pollution (particulate matter) episode also occurred in Derry. Moderate air pollution (particulate matter) was also monitored during these times in Lisburn and Armagh.
The pollution has been dispersing since early morning 29 December 2014 but may have risen again last night. The prevailing weather conditions are expected to then change leading to a forecast of low pollution levels for Northern Ireland.
These pollution levels are the result of the still, misty and cold overnight weather conditions we are currently experiencing, which can lead to the build up of localised pollutants caused by emissions from vehicles and home heating.
During periods of High Air Pollution the symptoms of people with lung or heart disease may worsen. Healthy people are unlikely to experience any ill effects.
Hourly updates on levels of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide are available on the Airquality NI website at www.airqualityni.co.uk and the Department’s freephone helpline 0800 556 677, which also offers health advice to those who may be particularly sensitive to air pollution.


