Anti-smog centres opened as fires burn in Moscow

More than 120 “anti-smog” centres were opened by authorities in Moscow today to give residents an escape from record-breaking heat and choking smoke from wildfires blazing around the capital.

Overwhelmed Muscovites can “get their breath back” in 123 air-conditioned rooms that have opened to the public in government buildings and hospitals, city official Vladimir Petrosyan said. Most apartments in Moscow lack air conditioning.