The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a caution to the public, advising a reduction in outdoor activities where necessary and the adoption of all precautionary measures to stay safe.

This advisory comes in response to the observed increase in particulate levels (dust levels) at EPA monitoring sites since December 13, 2023, according to a statement issued on Wednesday.

As of December 20, EPA's Air Quality Index had hit 158, which signified "unhealthy" on the agency's chart.

"The vulnerable groups especially the elderly, children, pregnant women, people with asthma and related allergies and any other persons with underlying health conditions are entreated to reduce outdoor activities where necessary," a part of the statement from the EPA advised.

Additionally, the general public has been advised to take all necessary precautionary measures to stay safe.

This includes using pollution masks where necessary, desisting from open burning of waste and other materials, and sprinkling water on dusty surfaces before sweeping to reduce dust emissions.

Also, motorists have been entreated to reduce speeding on untarred roads to reduce dust emissions.

The EPA has stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and provide prompt updates to the public on any new developments.