Level 2 contamination protocol activated in Murcia as African mineral dust cloud arrivesLorries are being diverted away from the main motorway around the regional capitalThe level of PM10 particles in the municipality of Murcia shot up on Wednesday to almost 300 micrograms per cubic metres of air, well over the 50 µg threshold, and as a result the Level 2 emergency protocol was activated on Thursday morning. The phenomenon has been attributed to the arrival from north Africa of a large quantity of mineral dust and not to any local source of pollution, according to Mayor José Ballesta. Nonetheless the measures being enforced by the Policía Local include the suspension of all demolition, tarmacking and paving work, restrictions on building activities and others which result in contamination and traders being advised to load and unload only after 18.00 and with the engine switched off. For more local news, events and other information visit the city of Murcia section of Murcia Today. Follow Murcia Today on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news, events and information in the Region of Murcia and the rest of Spain: https://www.facebook.com/MurciaToday/.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 23, 2020 14:48 UTC