China: Yellow alert due to dense fog January 23-24

Event

On Wednesday, January 23, the chinese National Meteorological Center issued a yellow alert (the third level on a four-point scale) due to dense foggy conditions in several major urban centers, including in Tianjin and Shanghai, as well as in ten provinces, including Hebei, Shandong, Henan, Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, and Guizhou, where the visibility is expected to remain very low over the next two days. The alert is expected to remain in place at least through January 24. Transportation disruptions (rail, road, and air) are likely.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather forecasts, prepare for lingering transportation disruptions, and confirm flight and train reservations. Due to health risks associated with air pollution, it is advisable to limit outdoor activities. Pollution is especially hazardous to vulnerable individuals (e.g. children, seniors, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from asthma and other respiratory issues). If experiencing breathing difficulties, seek medical attention, particularly if new symptoms appear (e.g. cough, sore throat, irritated eyes).