Sri Lanka, Jan. 21 -- Sri Lanka's air quality has deteriorated to slightly unhealthy levels in several parts of the country over the past 24 hours, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) said.

According to the NBRO, air quality remained moderate in Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Embilipitiya, Trincomalee, Mullaitivu, Batticaloa, Kalutara and Hambantota. However, slightly unhealthy conditions were recorded in Kandy, Kegalle, Galle, Puttalam, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura and Moneragala.

Forecasts indicate air quality index (AQI) values ranging between 56 and 120 over the next 24 hours, with peak pollution levels expected between 8.00-9.00 a.m. and 4.00-5.00 p.m.

As such, the NBRO advises the public to wear face masks whenever possible...