Tropical temperatures trigger smog warning

The chance of smog formation is increasing due to the persistently high temperatures, public health institute RIVM warns. Air quality will be bad in the middle and east of the country while the high temperatures last, NU.nl reports.

The RIVM advises people sensitive to smog to stay indoors and limit physical exertion, especially in the late afternoon and the early evening, as air pollution is at its worst at those times.

"Smog by ozone is caused by air pollution accumulating on sunny days", the RIVM said. "The pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, are converted into ozone under the influence of sunlight. That is also called summer smog."

Smog can cause respiratory problems like, coughing and shortness of breath, and can worsen asthma symptoms. It can also cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat.