Air pollution in London. Photo: Jun Huang / Shutterstock.com London Mayor Sadiq Khan has issued a high air pollution alert for Tuesday, November 10, 2026, warning residents to take precautions as elevated levels of particle pollution are forecast across the British capital.
The alert follows several days of dense fog and very light winds, which allowed pollution to accumulate over the weekend and remain in the air into Monday morning. Smoke from Bonfire Night celebrations, Diwali fireworks and wood burning is also believed to have contributed to the worsening conditions.
Forecasters at Imperial College London advised the Mayor to issue the warning, with particular concern for people who are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.
In a statement published on Monday, Khan urged Londoners to follow health advice and reduce their exposure. He also called on drivers to switch off their engines when stationary and asked residents to avoid burning garden waste.
The Mayor encouraged people to use public transport, walk or cycle where possible, and avoid busy roads when travelling. Those who need to drive were asked to consider car sharing, maintain their vehicles and avoid leaving engines running unnecessarily.
Residents were also advised to compost garden waste or take it to a refuse centre rather than burn it. The use of wood burners and open fires should be avoided where possible.
This is London's fourth high air pollution alert of 2026. City Hall has shared additional information with local GPs and emergency departments to help them respond to patients who may be particularly affected.
Air pollution alerts are issued when moderate, high or very high pollution levels are forecast. Warnings are distributed to residents, schools and local authorities, and are displayed at public locations throughout the city, including bus stop countdown signs and on the Underground.
Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy Mete Coban said toxic air pollution is responsible for thousands of premature deaths in London each year. He also pointed to the city's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), describing it as part of the Mayor's efforts to reduce pollution.
The alert comes as weather conditions are expected to limit the dispersal of pollutants, making Tuesday a day when residents are being urged to take extra care.