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London, UK - A high air pollution alert has been issued for London as temperatures are forecast to rise above 30°C (86°F) on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. City Hall has confirmed that strong sunshine and hot weather are expected to trigger high levels of ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant. The situation is being made worse by pollution being carried into the city by air from mainland Europe.
The warning is a serious reminder of the health risks posed by poor air quality. The Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, Mete Coban, has stated that London's "toxic air" is linked to around 4,000 premature deaths in the capital each year. People are being urged to take precautions.
High air pollution can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups. This includes older people, young children, and anyone with existing heart and lung conditions. For these individuals, the polluted air can make their health problems much worse.
To help reduce pollution and stay safe, people are being asked to take some simple steps. This includes not leaving vehicle engines idling and avoiding the burning of wood or garden waste. It's also advised to limit strenuous activity outdoors, especially during the hottest part of the day.
The system that issues these warnings was introduced in 2016 and uses data from the government's Daily Air Quality Index. The alerts are displayed on bus stops and the London Underground to ensure the public is well-informed.
Source: BBC reporting and local media outlets)
