Britain has been placed on a health alert because of a potentially dangerous cloud of air pollution blowing over the country. Experts said the smog could cause fatal asthma attacks and have warned the elderly and those with health problems to be cautious.

 

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said air pollution was blowing in from Europe and mixing with home-grown smog to create the problem. Officials have warned that this could trigger health difficulties for those with respiratory illnesses and the elderly, although it does not pose a health threat for the general population.

 

Large parts of England will see air pollution climb to moderate levels on Thursday, while parts of the north will see it hit nine out of 10.

 

A Met Office spokeswoman said high pressure and low wind are causing the pollution patch to hang around.

 

 

PHOTO: Canary Wharf, London, during a hazy period in 2014.

CREDIT: David Levene/for the Guardian.