Parts of Slovenia have seen increased pollution levels amid a spell of dull weather. The country's public health authorities advise limiting outdoor activities until the situation improves in a couple of days.

Data from the Environment Agency (ARSO) shows that the daily limit value of PM10 particles, set at 50 micrograms per cubic metre of air, was exceeded on 10 February at several monitoring points across the country.

The highest value was measured in Kranj at 84 micrograms per cubic metre, with high readings also in Zagorje, various parts of Ljubljana, and Trbovlje. Excessive levels were also recorded in Maribor, Celje, Murska Sobota, Hrastnik, and Novo Mesto.

The values continued to hover at or slightly above the limit value on 11 February, including in Ljubljana, where 59 micrograms per cubic metre were recorded in the Bežigrad borough between 10am and 11am. Maribor's Titova street had 66.

ARSO said the poor air quality is caused by increased emissions and weather conditions that trap polluted air in the lower layers. The situation is expected to improve on 13 February.

The National Public Health Institute pointed out that air pollution by particulates can have significant impacts on human health. For this reason it recommends limiting time spent outdoors and venting homes when pollution levels are lower.

Experts also advised avoiding areas near busy roads and choosing parks or forests for walks.

PM10 levels, which refer to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less, are generally highest during morning and evening rush hours when traffic and pollution from heating are heaviest, and lowest during late night and early morning hours when traffic is minimal and atmospheric conditions are more stable.