The Comisión Ambiental de la Megalópolis (CAMe) has announced the continuation of Phase I of the air quality contingency due to elevated ozone levels affecting the Metropolitan Zone of Mexico Valley (ZMVM), which encompasses both Mexico City and the State of Mexico. This decision aims to protect the health of residents as air pollution levels remain critically high.
On February 27, 2025, monitoring data confirmed ozone concentrations peaking at 157 parts per billion recorded at the Atizapán monitoring station, prompting the environmental authorities to enforce temporary restrictions and health recommendations. The persistent high-pressure system over Central Mexico has resulted in stable atmospheric conditions, minimal winds, and high solar radiation throughout the day, which contribute to the accumulation of air pollutants.
"The high-pressure system is causing climatic conditions favoring the formation and accumulation of ozone, resulting in poor air quality," the CAMe indicated, adding, "Forecasts predict air quality being classified as ‘Bad’ to ‘Very Bad’ for the duration of the afternoon, heightening the risk for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions." The organization urged citizens to stay informed about air quality and adhere to health recommendations to minimize exposure during peak pollution times, especially between 1 PM and 7 PM when pollution levels usually surge.
The CAMe has outlined several measures for residents to follow, particularly targeting at-risk groups including children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Among these recommendations are:
- Avoid outdoor activities, especially physical exercise and cultural or recreational events during peak hours.
- Limit exposure to tobacco smoke and refrain from outdoor activities organized by institutions during high pollution hours.
- Businesses are encouraged to facilitate remote work arrangements and online transactions to lower the need for commuting.
- Residents should reduce the use of household products such as aerosols, paints, and solvents, and limit hot water usage to reduce gas consumption.
It was also announced the implementation of the Doble Hoy No Circula program, which restricts the circulation of certain vehicles from 5 AM to 10 PM. This restriction affects:
- Private vehicles with verification sticker 2.
- Private vehicles with verification sticker 1 whose license plate ends with 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 0.
- Vehicles with stickers “0” and “00”, green stickers, and license plates ending with 1 and 2.
- Non-sticker vehicles, such as older cars, demonstration vehicles, or those with temporary or foreign plates, which face the same restrictions.
- Fifty percent of LP gas delivery trucks without necessary safety equipment.
- Local and federal freight vehicles will be prohibited from operating between 6 AM and 10 AM, except for those enrolled in regulatory programs.
- Taxis carrying stickers “00”, “0”, “1”, or “2” will not be allowed to operate from 10 AM to 10 PM.
The CAMe will be monitoring the air quality closely and could extend the restrictions if air quality does not improve by February 28. Updates are expected to be shared at around 8 PM, as authorities assess weather and environmental data continuously.
For those seeking to understand air quality data visually, the City of Mexico’s Environment Secretary offers the App Aire, providing real-time updates on air quality, solar radiation, and weather conditions with 24-hour forecasts. Google Maps can also help users determine air quality levels at specific locations, color-coded for easy accessibility.
Should residents need specifics on which vehicles are restricted during such environmental contingencies, they can contact Locatel via *0311, or utilize various apps available for tracking vehicle status, verification history, and restrictions.
Authorities stress the importance of adherence to these measures not only for individual health but for the community's overall well-being. Given the alarming statistics and health risk assessments, the worst air quality currently affects zones like Tlalpan, Cuajimalpa, and parts of Ecatepec and Nezahualcóyotl, leading the CAMe to advise residents repeatedly on necessary precautions.
The importance of collective awareness and individual action cannot be overstated as the ZMVM contends with steady pollution challenges. The health of many relies on the commitment of all to reduce emissions, limit travel, and heed guidance during these precarious weather conditions. Residents are encouraged to seek shelter during high ozone levels and adhere strictly to the advisories issued by environmental authorities.