Air pollution hits record levels in Hong Kong

Hong Kong, China - Air pollution at or near record levels in Hong Kong on Monday was caused by a sandstorm from northern China, environmental officials said.

The Environmental Protection Department urged people, especially those with breathing or heart problems, to stay indoors and limit physical exertion.

Schools had been ordered to cancel sports activities, said Environment Secretary Edward Yau, according to Radio Television Hong Kong, a public television station.

Hong Kong's air pollution has grown progressively worse during the past two decades, as pollution from mainland China has blended with pollution generated by Hong Kong.