Monash air quality station records index almost 20 times above hazardous level

The new year has brought thick smoke haze to Canberra and some of the highest levels of air pollution ever seen in the nation's capital. The air quality in Tuggeranong on Wednesday morning was almost 20 times above hazardous levels. 

The War Memorial barely visible from a thick
smoke haze that has impacted Canberra.

The thick smoke haze descended on Canberra on Tuesday night from fires burning at the South Coast. Authorities said the haze was likely to remain well into Wednesday.

Acting chief health officer Dr Paul Dugdale said all Canberrans were advised to avoid physical activity outside during periods of heavy smoke.

"We are strongly advising people who are sensitive to smoke, especially those with pre-existing heart and lung conditions, to take extra care during these conditions," he said.

Read the story from The Canberra Times by Lucy Bladen - “Monash air quality station records index almost 20 times above hazardous level.”