HEALTH warnings have been issued by the government as air quality plummets - with south Buckinghamshire among the worst hit areas.

Environment department Defra has warned people in the south-east to be braced for “high levels” of air pollution over the next few days.

High Wycombe and the surrounding area have received a nine rating in Derfra’s air pollution forecast. Ten is the highest level, which has been forecast for Essex and the east of England.

The elevated pollution levels have been caused by a combination of light south-easterly winds, the continental air flow and dust which has blown up from the Sahara desert, Defra said.

Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart issues, have been urged to “reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms.”

Advice on the Defra website adds: “People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often. Older people should also reduce physical exertion.

“Anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, cough or sore throat should consider reducing activity, particularly outdoors.”

Many cars across the south-east have been covered in a thin layer of dust and sand from the Sahara over the past two days.

Have you experienced any difficulties from the increased air pollution? Has your car been covered in sand from the Sahara?

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