EPD's response to media enquiries on Air Quality Health Index Health Risk Levels
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In response to media enquiries on health risk category for Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) reaching the "Serious" risk level, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (April 13) gave the following response:
Under the influence of a dusty air stream associated with the northeast monsoon, the level of Hong Kong's suspended particulates has started rising since 10pm last night (April 12).
This morning, the AQHI health risk level was "High" to "Very High". It is anticipated that by late afternoon, the health risk category of the AQHI of some air quality monitoring stations may reach the "Serious" risk level.
The dusty air particles consist mainly of larger-sized particulates, leading to a more significant increase in respirable suspended particulates (PM10) compared to fine suspended particulates (PM2.5), where the latter have a more direct impact on human health.
Hong Kong has recorded of being affected by dusty air streams, with impacts lasting from a few hours to several days. Due to long-distance transport, the effect of dusty air stream on Hong Kong is expected to be comparable to the accumulation of air pollutants under typical stagnant wind conditions.
The impact of this dusty air stream may last for one to two days. According to the Hong Kong Observatory's forecast, a southerly airstream is expected to reach and affect the coastal areas of Guangdong by mid of this week. The EPD anticipates that air quality in Hong Kong will improve by then.
The EPD will closely monitor the situation. Members of the public can check the hourly-updated AQHI on the EPD's website at
www.aqhi.gov.hk/en.html or call the EPD's hotline at 2827 8541.
Ends/Sunday, April 13, 2025
Issued at HKT 15:08
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