Add CategoryA “very poor” air quality alert has been issued as a dust haze hangs over Brisbane and northern NSW, with residents urged to “avoid being outside”.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warned south east Queensland and north east parts of NSW would be affected this morning “due to some dust picked up from the interior in windy conditions yesterday”.
A satellite image from the BOM showed a large cloud of brown dust stretching from the mid north coast of NSW in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour up to Brisbane in Queensland.
The BOM warned later today the air quality in Brisbane had plunged to “very poor” in areas including Southport, Cannon Hill, Mountain Creek and Lytton. Brisbane, Flinders View, Springwood, Woolloongabba and Rocklea also had “poor” air quality today.
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Very poor air quality means the air is noticeably dusty or smoky, with a PM2.5 concentration of between 100 and 300 micrograms per square metre, according to the Queensland Department of Environment and Science. The department warned people in these areas might experience symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.
“Everyone should avoid being outside to minimise exposure where possible, reduce prolonged or strenuous physical activity and close windows and doors,” the Department warned.
“Sensitive groups should reduce physical activity, actively monitor their symptoms, and follow their treatment plans.
“If you feel that the air in your home is uncomfortable, consider going to an airconditioned building like a library or shopping centre for a break if it is safe to do so.”