20100322 Hong Kong's air pollution reaches record levels

clipped from news.bbc.co.uk Air pollution levels in Hong Kong have reached a record high, prompting government warnings to people to avoid going out. Much of the city was shrouded under thick smog The Environmental Protection Department said some Air Pollution Index readings were more than double the level at which people should stay indoors. The record levels follow severe sandstorms thousands of kilometres to the north around the Chinese capital. Officials said the sandstorms had exacerbated Hong Kong's worsening smog problems. "As the sandstorm from northern China is moving southward with the northeast monsoon and is now affecting Hong Kong, the Air Pollution Index is expected to reach the 'very high' or 'severe' level," the government said in a statement. The government has warned the public to avoid prolonged exposure to heavy traffic areas and to reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities. Schools were told to cancel sporting activities; elderly people have sought emergency help for shortness of breath.