Mexico City Air Pollution: Phase 1 Alert Remains in Effect – Feb 16 Restrictions

Mexico City is grappling with another surge in air pollution, prompting authorities to activate Phase 1 of the Ozone Environmental Contingency Plan. The measures, announced on Sunday, February 15th, and continuing into Monday, February 16th, aim to mitigate the health risks associated with elevated ozone levels and reduce overall emissions.

The Megalopolis Environmental Commission (CAMe) reported maximum ozone concentrations of 158 and 157 parts per billion (ppb) at the Ajusco Medio and Center for Atmospheric Sciences (CCA) monitoring stations, located in the Tlalpan and Coyoacán boroughs of the city. These readings triggered the activation of preventative measures designed to limit public exposure to the contaminated air.

The current conditions are attributed to an anticyclonic system influencing the Valley of Mexico, creating a stable air mass with clear skies, light winds, and temperatures reaching up to 28 degrees Celsius. This combination of factors is fostering the formation and accumulation of ozone, a particularly harmful pollutant, especially during peak sunlight hours.

the “Hoy No Circula” (No Driving Today) program is in effect with extraordinary restrictions from 5:00 a.m. To 10:00 p.m. On Monday. Private vehicles with a hologram verification of 2 are prohibited from circulating. Vehicles with a hologram verification of 1, with license plates ending in 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 9, are also subject to the restriction. Vehicles with a hologram verification of 0 and 00, with yellow stickers ending in 5 or 6, are also barred from the roads.

Restrictions also extend to commercial vehicles. Fifty percent of gas L.P. Delivery trucks without dry disconnect valves, identified by “NON” license plate endings, are subject to limitations. Local and federal freight vehicles are prohibited from circulating between 6:00 a.m. And 10:00 a.m., with exceptions for those participating in the CDMX or Edomex self-regulation programs.

Exemptions to the driving restrictions include electric and hybrid vehicles, those with ecological plates, and vehicles with a valid hologram 0 or 00, regardless of their use or origin, provided they do not have yellow stickers ending in 5 or 6.

This latest activation of the contingency plan comes less than 24 hours after the previous one was lifted, highlighting the persistent challenges Mexico City faces in managing air quality. The city’s high altitude – 7,382 feet above sea level – contributes to lower oxygen levels, exacerbating the issue. Historically, incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels has been a significant factor, compounded by rapid population growth and increased vehicle traffic.

CAMe is urging residents to stay informed about air quality levels and adhere to health recommendations. The commission advises avoiding outdoor activities between 1:00 p.m. And 7:00 p.m., particularly for infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. They also recommend refraining from smoking, especially indoors, and utilizing resources like the “Aire” app, the website www.aire.cdmx.gob.mx, or the telephone number 5552789931 ext. 1 for up-to-date information.

Beyond individual precautions, CAMe is recommending the suspension of civic, cultural, and recreational activities outdoors during peak pollution hours. Organizers are encouraged to postpone or cancel outdoor events, sports competitions, cultural performances, and mass gatherings scheduled between 1:00 p.m. And 7:00 p.m.

The recurring air quality issues in Mexico City underscore the complex interplay of meteorological conditions, urban development, and public health. While the Mexican government has implemented various plans to reduce emissions – including vehicular restrictions and initiatives to expand green spaces and bicycle accessibility – the city continues to struggle with maintaining acceptable air quality levels, particularly during periods of stable atmospheric conditions and high solar radiation.