Ukraine will witness a significant deterioration in air quality in the coming days. Meteorological resource Ventusky reports that a cloud of dust will cover the country on February 13, which will significantly increase pollution levels in many regions, in particular in the western and central regions.
Health hazard
The dust cloud that will spread across the country will increase the level of pollution to critical levels. One of the most affected regions will be Zhytomyr, where the level of pollution will reach 317 units, which is classified as “very unhealthy” for the human body. The Kyiv region will also not be left out - the level of air pollution will reach 83 units, which already falls into the “unhealthy” category.
In the Kharkiv region, in particular in the city of Lozova, the pollution level will increase to 91 units, which is also dangerous to health.
The main factor contributing to pollution is fine dust PM2.5. These particles, which are mainly contained in the polluted cloud, can easily penetrate the lungs, posing a health threat, especially for people with chronic lung diseases such as asthma.
The Air Quality Index (IAQ) is calculated using the NowCast formula, which estimates the concentration of hazardous particles in the air.
In areas with very polluted air, people are advised to minimize their time outdoors. To reduce the risk, respirators or masks can be used to protect the respiratory tract. People with chronic lung diseases, children, and the elderly should be especially careful.
This case of polluted air is another alarming signal indicating problems related to climate change. Scientists and doctors are expressing concern that such anomalous phenomena could lead to even greater health problems, especially in conditions of an unusual winter.
