Health, environment ministries issue warning over high levels of air pollution
Poor air quality a result of dust blowing in from North Africa; ministries advise at-risk populations and general public to minimize outdoor exposure until the air clears
Renee Ghert-Zand is the health reporter and a feature writer for The Times of Israel.
The Health Ministry and Environment Protection Ministry issued a warning on Thursday over extremely high air pollution in all parts of the country.
The air is expected to clear considerably by the evening.
The very poor air quality is a result of dust blowing in from North Africa.
Those at higher risk healthwise, including people with heart disease and lung disease, the elderly, children, and pregnant women, were warned against physical activity outside.
The warning also called on the general population to try to limit outdoor activity as much as possible.
According to an air quality review published last year, Israelis’ exposure to air pollution improved between 2015 and 2022, but was still 3.5 times higher than World Health Organization targets adopted by the Environmental Protection Ministry.
The review looked at the presence of fine particulate matter — particles that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter. Exposure to abnormal levels of such particles can increase the risk of heart disease, and asthma, and contribute to low birth weight.
The ministry said the main reason for the prevalence of such particles was Israel’s proximity to desert areas, but they are also known to come from emissions caused by industry and transportation.
Exposure to abnormal levels can cause anything from headaches and coughing to asthma.
A study published last year showed air pollution is more dangerous to the health of the average person than smoking or alcohol.
