The high concentration of particulate matter in the air has triggered the first phase of Brussels' pollution peak contingency plan, announced the regional environmental administration Brussels Environment on Monday.
The threshold of 35 µg/m³ for fine particles (PM2.5) calculated over the past 24 hours was exceeded in Brussels. The quality of the air in the capital is being affected by air pollution from Eastern Europe, Brussels Environment noted.
Reduced air quality can pose several health issues ranging from bronchitis, asthma, or even lung cancer in more severe and long-term cases. The elderly, young people and those with underlying health conditions, such as asthma and cardiac issues, are more vulnerable to air pollution.
Brussels Environment has activated the 'information and awareness' phase of the 'smog plan'. This includes informing the general population about the air quality.
However, air quality is expected to gradually improve until tomorrow morning, partly due to forecasted winds and precipitation on Monday night.
Nonetheless, if the situation persists for longer than two days, measures will be encouraged to tackle the pollution, namely limiting the use of cars, explained Brussels Environment.
