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What do the forecasts mean? 

These air pollution forecast covers five pollutants at present - namely ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide and PM10 particles.

For each of the UK zones and agglomerations shown in the map below, air pollution levels are predicted separated for urban areas, rural areas and as well as the roadside.

The overall forecast for each area is a composite "worst case" of all the pollutants and location types. The forecast is described in terms of an air pollution index which is based on the health effects of each of the different pollutants.

The current system publishes a forecast at least twice daily, which is valid for 24 hours from the time of issue.

Map of the UK Zones and Agglomerations

Other ways to find out about air pollution forecasts

You can also obtain these forecasts from:

  • Freephone 0800 556677
  • National newspapers
  • TV and Radio Weather Forecasts

Page last modified: 14 February 2011