With extreme heat forecast across the country today and tomorrow, temperatures are expected to hit 42°c, the Grand Duchy has been put on Red Alert in the centre and the south and on Orange Alert in the north.
Speed limits are in place to help ease ozone concentration in peak times and during high heat.
Yesterday, on Tuesday 23 July, "the concentrations of ground-level ozone exceeded the threshold of pre-information at the Beckerich station (160 μg / m3), because the maximum concentration was 173 μg / m3 at 19h", stated the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Sustainable Development.
As Thursday (25 July) promises to be even hotter, it's safe to say that these speed limits will remain in effect until then. "The maximum concentrations will be similar on Wednesday or rising with a generalization of the risk of exceeding the European information threshold (180 μg / m3)," adds the Ministry.
Both Wednesday and Thursday will see very little wind and cloud cover. These weather conditions will contribute to worse air quality and in turn, higher levels of ozone pollution.
During this time, not only is it recommended to stay in shady areas but also to ensure that you drink a minimum of 1.5 litres of water per day. Residents should also avoid physical exertion during the hottest hours of the day. The elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and those who have to take regular medication should be especially vigilant in these times. Children should also avoid the sunshine.
As a reminder, those aged 75 and above can register for the 'plan canicule' (heatwave plan), which ensures that care workers will visit them at home to make sure they are coping with the high temperatures. Those concerned can contact the Red Cross at 27 55 between 7 am and 7 pm.
Red alert for the south and capital this afternoon
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