According to Sri Lanka’s National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) Air Quality Unit, Jaffna, Puttalam and Vavuniya are amongst the worst-hit areas by air pollution as polluted air through Asia is being channelled into Sri Lanka’s atmosphere.
“Sri Lanka is currently experiencing the Inter-monsoonal rainy condition and that is why the wind is blowing from many parts in the direction of the country,” H.D.S Premasiri, a senior scientist at the NBRO, said.
“The pollution levels in northern Sri Lanka are higher than the southern parts because of the northern winds blowing from the Indian peninsular region,” he added.
The air pollution is expected to continue for the next few days and may result in breathing difficulties for those more sensitive to mild dust particles. Afflicted persons should remain cautious by wearing masks regularly and minimizing strenuous physical activities like exercise and working outdoors.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, when Air Quality Index (AQI) value ranges between 101 and 150, members of sensitive groups might experience health effects, but the public is likely unaffected.
The Index states that “People with heart or lung diseases, children, older adults and people who are engaged in outdoors activities are considered sensitive and therefore at greater risk.”
Read more from the Daily Mirror.
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