Reactivation of atmospheric contingency due to ozone in the Valley of Mexico

Mexico City, Feb. 16 - Less than 24 hours after suspending it, the Megalopolis Environmental Commission (CAMe) reactivated today phase 1 of the atmospheric ozone contingency in the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico.

The decision aims to reduce the population's exposure to polluted air and the risk of health effects, as well as to decrease the generation of pollutants.

Explaining the decision in a statement, the entity reported that at 5:00 p.m. local time, hourly ozone concentrations of 158 and 157 ppb were recorded at the Ajusco Medio and Center for Atmospheric Sciences stations, respectively, in the Mexico City boroughs of Tlalpan and Coyoacán.

Based on the most recent meteorological analyses, the Mexico City Atmospheric Monitoring System noted that the Valley of Mexico remains under the influence of an anticyclonic system, which replaced the one that withdrew the previous day.

Although it is of lesser intensity, the persistence of a dry and stable air mass caused clear skies and light winds, as well as maximum temperatures of up to 28 degrees Celsius, it detailed, adding that these conditions favor the formation and accumulation of ozone.

As part of the contingency measures, the agency asked the population to stay informed about air quality and follow recommendations to avoid exposure to pollution peaks between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time, especially the most vulnerable individuals.

It also suggested avoiding civic, cultural, and recreational activities, as well as outdoor exercise during the mentioned hours; suspending any outdoor gatherings organized by public or private institutions; and postponing sports, cultural, or entertainment events.

With the purpose of reducing emissions, the Commission urged facilitating and continuing remote work and conducting purchases and procedures online to reduce travel, as well as avoiding the use of air fresheners, aerosols, paints, waterproofing products, or products containing solvents.

The entity also recalled restrictions on circulation for the transportation sector, federal and local industry, and services, while disseminating measures led by the government, such as health authorities' recommendations in this area.

CAMe had suspended the atmospheric ozone contingency yesterday at 8:00 p.m. local time, which had been activated on the 12th.