China has issued its first red alert for smog in Beijing, ordering schools to remain closed and implementing restrictions on factories and traffic that will keep the city's vehicles off the roads.
According to ABC News, authorities have predicted more than three consecutive days of severe smog.
Readings of PM2.5 particles climbed toward 300 micrograms per cubic meter, compared with the World Health Organisation's safe level of 25.
The heavy smog is not expected to improve until Thursday.
