An orange haze harmful to health has invaded China in recent days. On Wednesday, air pollution hit record highs due to a sandstorm raging over Beijing and elsewhere in the country. The official air quality index in the Chinese capital was stuck at 500, the maximum level recorded, synonymous with "severe pollution". But unofficial records reported twice as high.
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In parts of northern and northwestern China, including the semi-desert region of Inner Mongolia, strong winds and dust have given the sky an ominous orange color. Due in part to airborne sand, visibility was sometimes reduced to a few hundred metres.
Call for caution
Sandstorms are common in northern China in spring, when the wind blows up dust in this relatively dry part of the country. According to the authorities, this pollution is mainly due to PM10 particles (less than 10 micrometers in diameter), which can be inhaled and aggravate respiratory problems.
Residents of the affected areas should "protect themselves well from wind and sand and close doors and windows," said the weather service, which advises wearing a mask outside. Children, seniors and people with respiratory allergies should "limit their outings," they also stressed.
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