HAMPSHIRE is bracing itself as a cloud of toxic air and Saharan dust blows in from Europe.

A health warning has been issued as the south faces the worst of it, with 'moderate' air pollution today with levels becoming 'very high' tomorrow.

It comes just three weeks after toxic smog hung over the county as people headed outdoors to try and get a glimpse of the solar eclipse.

Experts say people should reduce the amount of physical activity they do and adults and those particularly at risk should avoid it all together. These include adults and children with lung problems, adults with heart problems and older people.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) it has been caused by a mix of warm sunny weather with temperatures of up to 20C (68F) and light winds blowing in Saharan dust, pollutants from the continent as well as those trapped near the ground.

Forecasters expect the pollution to reduce this weekend when clearer Atlantic air spreads from the northwest.

The pollution should become moderate to low on Saturday, although moderate pollution will cling to some areas until Monday.