Vulnerable Oldham residents have been warned to limit outdoor activity this weekend due to increased air pollution.
This is due to the fact concentrations of ozone are expected to be higher than recommended.
The concentration of ozone is expected to be up to double the guideline level set by the World Health Organization.
The forecast, by Clean Air Greater Manchester, shows moderate air pollution for Friday, August 12, Saturday, August 13, and Sunday, August 14.
Higher concentrations of ground-level ozone can lead to asthma attacks and inflammation.
Ground-level ozone can form when emissions from human sources – such as industrial facilities or vehicle exhausts – chemically react in the presence of sunlight, especially on hot sunny days.
Much of the country is currently experiencing an extreme heat alert – which narrowly misses Oldham.
However, hot weather is forecast for the entire weekend.
A Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) spokesman said: “Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, who experience symptoms, should consider reducing strenuous physical activity, particularly outdoors.”
However, the general population are advised they can continue to enjoy their usual outdoor activities.
Previous research has also suggested that those inside cars are exposed to a greater concentration of air pollution than those outside them, such as pedestrians.
Air pollution in much of Oldham, as well as most of Greater Manchester, is forecast to be 4, or ‘moderate’, on the daily air quality index.
This means a concentration of 101-120 micrograms per cubic metre – well higher than WHO guidelines of 60 micrograms per cubic metre.
Clean Air Greater Manchester say air pollution contributes to at least 1,200 early deaths in Greater Manchester each year, with an estimated £5.3bn health and social care cost by 2035.
In March, a public consultation was announced after the delay of Greater Manchester’s Clean Air Zone – with £186,000 spent on stickers to cover up out-of-date signs.
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