China: Air pollution reaches hazardous levels in Beijing May 4-5

Event

A dust storm in northern China on Thursday, May 4, significantly affected air quality and reduced visibility, including in the capital Beijing. As of 15:00 (local time), the Beijing Air Quality Index (AQI) - which measures air pollution in the form of breathable particles (known as Fine Particles PM 2.5) - reached a "hazardous" level of 702 micrograms per cubic meter. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) levels over 25 are harmful to health; a red alert has been issued. These hazardous levels are forecast until at least Friday in Beijing and other regions such as Xinjiang as well as remote northeastern regions (e.g. Heilongjiang province).

Context

Spring is northern China's dust storm season, during which time winds blow across the vast Gobi Desert, picking up fine sand and dust particles and dumping them along a belt of densely populated land further south. This combines with exhaust emissions from coal-burning energy plants, factories, construction sites, and 200 million motor vehicles, 5 million of which are in Beijing alone.

Advice

Individuals present in Beijing and across the affected regions are advised to monitor the situation via local media, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and refrain from nonessential outdoor activities when the AQI is considered elevated. Pollution can be particularly problematic for vulnerable individuals, such as children, seniors, pregnant women, and people suffering from asthma and other respiratory issues. If experiencing breathing difficulties, do not hesitate to seek medical attention, particularly if new symptoms appear (e.g., cough, sore throat, irritated eyes).