Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is advising Melbourne and Geelong residents that forecasted weather conditions for Friday January 4 are likely to raise dust and reduce air quality.
EPA has issued a Fair to Locally Poor air quality forecast for tomorrow.
EPA Air Quality Scientist Gavin Fisher said areas known for dust issues, such as Brooklyn and South Geelong, would likely be Poor.
“The hot dry northerly winds the Bureau of Meteorology has forecasted for the morning and early afternoon usually result in raised dust levels,” he said.
“This should clear out with the wind change forecast for the late afternoon, but we encourage people to visit the AirWatch website for real-time air quality information.”
High levels of PM10 particles in the air can irritate the eyes and throat and can penetrate into the upper airways. PM10 can increase the risk of health effects in those with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma). People exposed to high concentrations of PM10 in dust events can experience an increase in symptoms, including wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Increased heat is commonly associated with reductions in air quality and has its own impact on health. EPA encourages people with pre-existing illnesses and those with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions to make sure they follow their treatment plan and if symptoms do not settle, seek medical advice.
To help minimise the adverse effects of airborne dust EPA encourages people to
- Avoid outdoor activity
- Avoid vigorous exercise, especially if you have asthma or a breathing-related condition
- Stay indoors and close windows and doors
- Ensure regular maintenance of air conditioner filters.
For health tips for hot weather visit https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/heat
A Heat Health Alert has also been issued for a number of areas across Victoria.
Under changes to the Residential Noise Regulations, residential air conditioners can be used all day and night, regardless of the noise generated, when a local Heat Health Alert is active.
Details: https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/about-us/news-centre/news-and-updates/news/2018/december/06/new-heat-health-alert-exemption-to-noise-regulations