The smoke in Kyiv today, 20 September, is due to wind changes and minor fires in ecosystems. In particular, in peat bogs and open areas of Kyiv, Chernihiv and Sumy regions. This was reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Komersant ukrainskyi reports
The accumulation of harmful impurities in the surface layer of the atmosphere is facilitated by a weak north and northeast wind.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs stressed that the radiation background in the capital does not exceed the permissible limits.
At the same time, the ministry advised to limit the time spent outside, as well as
- keep windows closed;
- maintain water balance;
- use a mask or respirator, as well as an air purifier.
In Ukraine, rescuers are currently extinguishing 21 large-scale fires in ecosystems with a total area of about 2,200 hectares. About 860 people and 201 pieces of equipment, as well as three Ukrzaliznytsia fire trains, are involved in the work, the Ministry of Internal Affairs added.
The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine said that the reason for the deterioration in air quality is the burning of peat bogs and other ecosystems and autumn temperature drops.
As of 10:00 a.m., a significant excess of fine particles (dust, soot, smoke) is recorded in the air of the city and its surroundings, the Ministry of Environment noted.
They reminded that every year in autumn, due to temperature differences between day and night, temperature inversions occur, which cause the accumulation of harmful substances in the surface air layer.
“Warm air and humidity lead to fog, and harmful substances from various emission sources hardly dissipate. This affects the air quality and pollution indicators,” the statement said.
To reduce the possible negative impact on health from air pollution, the Ministry of Environment recommends:
➖ Limit the time spent outside;
refrain from physical activity in the open air
close windows and doors tightly;
refuse to ventilate the apartment and use air conditioning and air purification systems if possible;
➖ carry out wet cleaning in residential premises;
increase your fluid intake to 2-3 litres per day;
if you have a respiratory disease, make sure you always have the necessary medicines with you;
if you feel unwell, consult a doctor.