TIANJIN - China's northern port city of Tianjin issued its first ever red alert for air pollution, the most serious level, on Monday night, as it joins neighboring Beijing in fighting the lingering winter smog.

The red alert will last from 0:00 a.m. Wednesday to 6:00 a.m.Thursday, according to a government statement.

During the red alert, cars will be allowed on the roads depending on whether their license plate ends in an odd or even number, Enterprises and public institutions will adopt flexible working hours and large outdoor activities and construction work will be suspended.

Kindergartens, middle schools and primary schools will also cancel classes on Wednesday.

Key polluting industries will cut production as continuous cleaning operations are conducted in the city's downtown areas.

Beijing issued its first ever red alert for air pollution on Dec. 7. Its second red alert will end on Tuesday.