The DGS warns that a situation of “poor air quality” is expected today due to “an air mass from the deserts of North Africa, which carries suspended dust and crosses mainland Portugal, increasing concentrations of naturally occurring inhalable particles in the air”.

“This pollutant (inhalable particles – PM10) has effects on human health, especially on the most sensitive population, children and the elderly, whose health care must be redoubled during the occurrence of these situations (…) as long as this phenomenon continues”, the statement said.

In view of this situation, which could potentially continue beyond today, the DGS “recommends the general population to avoid prolonged efforts, limit physical activity outdoors and exposure to risk factors, such as smoke from tobacco and contact with irritating products”.