Experts have warned that a cloud of toxic smog could hit Liverpool this weekend.
The Department for Food, drugs Agriculture and Rural Affairs has issued a yellow alert for Merseysisde which means there will be “moderate” air pollution from Saturday.
Experts have said that the cloud is currently being blown from the continent and will cover parts of Wirral and Liverpool by Saturday with the whole of Merseyside covered by Sunday.
The Defra website says: “With southeasterly winds from Continent dominating, advice the risk of Moderate air pollution is likely to be widespread, with localised areas of High air pollution also possible.”
Health advice says that those with lung problems and adults with heart problems should reduce physical exertions whilst the cloud is here, especially if they are outdoors.
Those with asthma may find they will need to the use their reliever inhaler more often. Older people should also reduce phyiscal exertions.
The dust cloud which formed from the Saharan desert is expected to become a widespread issue for much of England and Wales over the next week.