Dense Fog and Air Pollution Trigger Health Warning as Travel Disruption Continues

Dense fog and still weather have contributed to high air pollution levels in parts of England, prompting health advice and warnings that travel could be affected.

A high air-pollution alert was issued in London on Tuesday 10 November after fog and very light winds allowed emissions to accumulate over the weekend and into Monday. The pollution was reported to have reached very high levels in some urban areas, with smoke from recent Bonfire Night and Diwali fireworks identified as a possible contributing factor.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan urged people to minimise their exposure to polluted air, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to its effects. Government monitoring also recorded high pollution in parts of the South East and East Midlands, while the wider weather conditions created difficult travel conditions across several areas.

A Met Office yellow fog warning was in force across parts of England and Wales until 10am on Tuesday. Visibility fell below 100 metres in some locations, increasing the risk of slower journeys and public transport delays.

The Met Office warned that reduced visibility could affect road users and public transport, with the possibility of delays to flights in some areas. The fog was expected to ease during the morning, although cooler and frosty conditions were forecast later in the week.

Air pollution can be particularly concerning for people with asthma and other respiratory conditions, as well as older people and children. People who notice symptoms or are concerned about their health should follow advice from health professionals.

Where pollution is high, people can reduce exposure by avoiding strenuous outdoor activity near busy roads, limiting unnecessary car journeys and avoiding activities that create additional smoke. Drivers are being reminded to slow down, leave extra space and use appropriate lighting when visibility is poor.

Motorists should not rely solely on satellite navigation or the vehicle ahead when travelling in fog. Although the most prominent pollution alert was issued for London, monitoring indicated elevated pollution elsewhere in England, including the South East.

Conditions can vary significantly between towns and neighbourhoods, so residents should check local air-quality information rather than assume the same levels apply everywhere.

The latest updates and advice are available from the Met Office and the UK government's UK-AIR air-quality information service.