AN AIR alert has been issued for Southampton this evening.

Southampton City Council officials have warned that easterly winds are expected to bring in pollutants from the continent today.

According to the council improvements are expected in 48 hours but the city has been given a ‘moderate’ air alert.

This will mean that people who are sensitive to air pollution could notice mild effects over the next two days.

It is unlikely to cause any severe damage but adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems could experience symptoms if they take part in any strenuous activities, particularly outdoors.

The warning has not yet been published on the Met Office but the council posted on Twitter about the alert and the warning can be found on the council’s air alert website at www.airalert.info

To monitor the air pollution rate in the city residents are encouraged to visit the website to find out more.