The RIVM issued a smog alarm for the whole of the Netherlands for Tuesday because of the very poor air quality that is expected. The institute takes into account that everyone can be affected by air pollution. People with respiratory complaints are advised to stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise.
“This advice mainly applies in the afternoon and early evening, because that is when the air is most polluted,” according to RIVM. In recent days there was a risk of smog and bad air, so a smog warning was issued on Monday. This means that vulnerable groups can suffer.
According to the RIVM, there is also a chance of smog forming on Wednesday, but it is probably less concentrated. A smog warning is in effect for that day. The rain showers expected during the day on Wednesday will bring the smog levels down again, RIVM thinks.
Smog occurs when air pollution accumulates on days with a lot of sun, according to RIVM. The waste products in the air are converted into ozone by sunlight. This happens especially in spring and summer, when there is little wind. The polluted air can lead to coughing and shortness of breath and irritation to the eyes, nose and throat.
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