Weather authority issues 'fireworks index'

For the first time, China's weather authority will issue a "fireworks index" for the entire country during the upcoming Spring Festival. It's part of an effort to encourage the proper and conscientious use of fireworks by the public.

Although it's a tradition in China to set off firework during the Spring Festival holiday, the explosions create dust and sulfur dioxide, resulting in serious air pollution. The weather authority's four-level index is meant to tell people when conditions are suitable to set off fireworks.

The first category indicates the weather is safe for fireworks, while the fourth is a warning not to set off fireworks. According to the index, in the coming 24 hours, weather in North and South China will not be suitable for fireworks displays.

Experts say the index takes into account safety, the diffusion of contaminants, wind speeds, humidity and precipitation. It will be published from Tuesday until February 14th.