Just over a week ago, the city of Beijing has issued its first ever warning on air pollution. And now, it has once again raised the 'red alert' status following the heavy smog that covered the northern part of China.

The newly issued notice warns netizens that the harmful smoke be deem effective from 7 AM on Saturday (Dec 19) until 12:00 AM on Wednesday (Dec 23).

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During the 89-hour window, officials encourage people to stay at home and schools to suspend classes. The highest warning level also pose necessary constraints on construction, factory and vehicles. For instance, plate number coding will be implemented on both private and government-owned cars.

Smogs contain detrimental particles called PM2.5 that are associated with respiratory complications. A PM2.5 of 25 micrograms per cubic metre is the safest level. 

The authorities have released a map to depict where the smog will hit most. The pollution will blanket the country reaching up to 2000 kilometres affecting more than 10 big cities including Beijing ang Shijiazhuang.

The smog that affected the country last December 8 was at maximum just below 300. However, this time, authorities expect it can shoot as high as 500 micrograms.

Meanwhile in Hebei provice, the local officials have also issued an 'orange alert'  beginning on Friday (12:00 AM). 

Based on the Beijing Municipal Severe Air Pollution Emergency Plan, air pollution alert levels can be issued by the local government. Red alert, for instance, is raised when severe pollution is expected that could last more than 3 days, Orange alert for 3 days, Yellow for 2 days and blue for 1 day. 

TagsBeijing Air Pollution, smog, Beijing Municipal Severe Air Pollution Emergency Plan, respiratory illness