Latest news with #environmentalagencies
South China Morning Post
5 days ago
- Climate
- South China Morning Post
New South Wales battered by hazardous dust storm in wake of record floods
Australians in New South Wales are facing yet another extreme weather challenge even as thousands are still reeling from days of storms and unprecedented flooding. Massive dust clouds blanketed parts of the state, including the capital of Sydney, on Tuesday, creating conditions which experts warn are hazardous to health. Authorities warned of 'extremely poor' air quality in some suburbs, with PM10 particle levels exceeding 600 – far above the 'good' threshold of 40, according to environmental standards. PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of 10 micrometres or fewer, which are 'small enough to pass through the throat and nose and enter the lungs', according to NSW Health. Short-term exposure to them can exacerbate pre-existing health conditions such as asthma and lung or heart disease. Particles in the air may include dust, sea salt, and by-products from fires, vehicles and industrial sources, according to Air Quality NSW. 'These particles can pass into the lungs,' the agency said, adding they can trigger breathing difficulties, eye and throat irritation, or worsen chronic bronchitis and asthma. The dust storm originated in South Australia and swept across Victoria, reducing visibility to as little as 300 metres (1,000 feet) before moving into central and southeastern New South Wales, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
The Independent
14-05-2025
- Climate
- The Independent
Hosepipe ban warning after driest start to spring in six decades
England faces a "medium risk" of drought this summer due to the driest start to spring in over six decades, prompting warnings of potential hosepipe bans. Rainfall in England from February to April was the lowest since 1956, with April rainfall 50 per cent below the long-term average. Northern England experienced even drier conditions, with some areas having the driest start to the year since 1929. River flows are exceptionally low in 14 locations, primarily in northern England, while reservoir levels are also lower than normal. Water companies are taking measures like repairing leaks and transferring water between regions, while urging customers to conserve water.
