The Commission for the Megalopolis Environment (CAMe) reported that Phase 1 air quality contingency remains in effect this Friday, February 13, in the Metropolitan Zone of the Valley of Mexico due to poor air quality. Ozone buildup is expected with temperatures up to 27 degrees Celsius, keeping the Double No Drive program active. Authorities recommend avoiding outdoor activities between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to protect health.
The Phase 1 atmospheric environmental contingency was activated on Thursday, February 12, by the Commission for the Megalopolis Environment (CAMe), after recording a maximum ozone concentration of 155 ppb at the Center for Atmospheric Sciences (CCA) station in the Coyoacán borough of Mexico City. This measure aims to reduce population exposure to contaminated air and decrease pollutant emissions.
In its 3:00 p.m. report on Friday, February 13, CAMe stated that the contingency persists due to weather conditions favoring ozone formation, with estimated maximum temperatures of 26 to 27 degrees Celsius and atmospheric stability. "It is estimated that today's air quality will be Poor to Very Poor," the statement noted. Air quality was reported as 'Poor' at stations such as Gustavo A. Madero, Texcoco, Venustiano Carranza, and others in Mexico City and Edomex, while 'Acceptable' in areas like Iztapalapa, Naucalpan, and Ecatepec.
As part of the restrictions, the Double No Drive program applies from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Vehicles with verification hologram 2 are prohibited; holograms 1 ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, or 0; and holograms 0 or 00 with blue sticker ending in 9 or 0. Additionally, 50% of LP gas units without dry disconnect valves are restricted. Exceptions include electric vehicles, hybrids, emergency services, and school transport.
For protection, CAMe advises avoiding outdoor activities, exercise, and large events between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., especially for vulnerable groups like children, seniors, and those with respiratory illnesses. Updates are available via the 'Aire' app or www.aire.cdmx.gob.mx. The next report will be issued at 8:00 p.m. to determine if the contingency is lifted.
