Saharan Dust contributes to "Moderate" Air Pollution forecast from Imperial College for Thursday night and Friday 6th March

Particulate levels are expected to increase, due to a combination of Saharan dust and pollution from the continent.

Saharan dust which is currently present in the atmosphere over Europe is likely to be carried up over the UK in a south easterly or southerly air feed. This air feed which will have travelled from the near continent, and later from the Mediterranean up through France, may also contribute pollution emissions from urban, industrial and agricultural sources.

Particulate levels are expected to be highest overnight from Thursday and into Friday morning, due to a combination of Saharan dust, pollution from the continent and London's own pollution poorly dispersed.

Going into Friday, the day is forecast to be cloudy with a possibility of some rain from late morning or early afternoon.

Initially a low altitude air feed from Germany and France is expected to contribute pollution emissions from urban, industrial and agricultural sources on the continent. Saharan dust, which is currently present in the atmosphere over Europe, is also likely to be carried up over the UK in a south easterly or southerly air feed.

Later, rain and a 'cleaner' northerly air feed should help to reduce and clear pollution.

In summary, highest pollution levels are forecast early on Friday before dropping later. 

For most people, it is safe to carry out your normal activities, however adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms. People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often. Older people should also reduce physical exertion.

Air pollution is expected to remain 'Low' for the following pollutants:

Nitrogen Dioxide
Ozone
Sulphur Dioxide