TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A severe haze from China has drifted to Taiwan, degrading air quality on Saturday.

The pollutants were carried southward by a continental cold front. PM2.5 is the main pollutant, per CNA.

The transboundary pollutants have prompted orange alerts in northern Taiwan as of 9 a.m. Areas include New Taipei City, Taoyuan and Keelung, the Taiwan Air Quality Monitoring Network indicates.

Central and southern regions, downwind from the pollution source, are more prone to air pollution accumulation. Coastal areas from Changhua to Tainan are experiencing stronger winds that can stir up dust, worsening air quality and visibility.

An orange air quality alert is expected for northern Taiwan, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Matsu, and Kinmen. Taiwan Power Company has reduced emissions at several power plants, and the public is advised to wear masks and limit outdoor activities.

PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 can lead to severe allergies, asthma, and increased risks of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases.