Official predicts heavy smog to hit Beijing over next 5 days  

(ECNS) -- Beijing and neighbouring cities, including Tianjin and Shijiazhuang are predicted to face heavy air pollution over the following five days, Legal Evening News Friday reported, citing a Ministry of Environmental Protection director.

Cities such as Langfang, Tangshang, Baoding, Cangzhou, Handan, Xingtai, and Hengshui might also be affected.

Pollutant PM2.5, the concentration of which may hit code orange levels, is the major cause for concern, the director noted.

He added that the ministry has warned those cities involved to make adequate preparations. If essential, each should activate contingency plans to reduce emissions.