A wave of polluted air hit the southern regions of France - a high level of alert has been declared

The reason was the invasion of air masses from North Africa, carrying with them sand dust. Due to this, the content of the finest harmful particles in the atmosphere sharply increased.

In several departments, the red, that is, the highest, level of danger was introduced. In Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, unfavorable conditions are observed in the western part of the region.

For residents of the Côte d’Azur, there is clarification: the departments of Alpes-Maritimes and Var are outside the warning zone. But if you are planning to visit Bouches-du-Rhône or Vaucluse, specialists recommend exercising increased caution.

Ecologists are sounding the alarm over the so-called “triple blow”: abnormal heat is combined with a high level of ozone in the air and an unprecedented concentration of pollen.

Those who suffer from asthma, allergies, or chronic respiratory diseases are especially vulnerable now. Also at risk are the elderly, expectant mothers, and infants.

Good news: according to meteorologists’ forecasts, improvement will begin as early as Wednesday evening - thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected to disperse the smog.