China hit by smog

China will continue to get shrouded by light to medium smog over the next two days, the country's national observatory has forecast, asking people to avoid outdoor activities.

Parts of northern China and provinces along the Yangtze, Yellow and Huaihe rivers will experience light to medium smog, according to a statement on the National Meteorological Centre (NMC).

Beijing too is enveloped by heavy pollution.

The NMC suggested people avoid outdoor activities and take precautions during the period. Starting Tuesday, rain and a cold front will disperse the smog, said the NMC.

According to the Beijing Environmental Protection Monitoring Centre, Beijing experienced serious smog on Saturday despite showers over the past two nights.
 

The Air Quality Index (AQI) reading was 229 yesterday, indicating serious level of pollution, with the major pollutant being PM 2.5, or particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter, according to the centre.