‘Filthy Air’ Prompts ‘Very High’ Pollution Alert For London

A “very high” air pollution warning has been issued for London for the first time under a new alert system. Warnings are being issued at bus stops, roadside signs and Tube stations under the new system set up by London Mayor Sadiq Khan. The rise has been attributed to cold, calm and settled weather, meaning winds are not dispersing local pollutants. The mayor said “the shameful state of London’s toxic air” meant he had to trigger the alert. “This is the highest level of alert and everyone - from the most vulnerable to the physically fit - may need to take precautions to protect themselves from the filthy air,” he said.