Ghana’s air quality is currently 49.6 times the WHO annual air quality guideline value, a new report by IQAir’s AirVisual, a real-time air quality information platform, has revealed.
The report said the current situation is because of the high concentration of PM2.5 in Accra’s atmosphere.
PM2.5 refers to particles found in the air, including dust, soot, dirt, smoke and liquid droplets with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less.
The report further revealed that the current situation is because of the high concentration of PM2.5 in Accra’s atmosphere.
Due to the highly damaging effects of pollution exposure on vulnerable members of society, i.e. young children and the elderly, pregnant women, those with heightened sensitivity towards pollution, as well as those with pre-existing illnesses or compromised immune system, the population is advised to wear a mask outdoors, run an air purifier, close windows to avoid dirty outdoor air and avoid outdoor exercise, the report said.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) says the “dryness and decreased visibility”, which constitute dust lifted from Chad, Sudan and Niger, “may take some time to clear”.
“These conditions are expected to persist at varying intensities over the next few days.
“However, it is expected that there will be a relaxation in the intensity during the week and consequently,” a statement signed by the Acting Director-General of GMeT, Eric Asuman, said.
The general public has, therefore, been advised to keep hydrated, follow fire safety precautions, cover foods and water to prevent dust from settling on them, wash fruits thoroughly before taking them and wearing nose masks to reduce effect on people allergic to dust.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
