Calvados under the cloud of fine particles

In a press release published Monday January 13, 2025, the pCalvados refect announces having activated a information-recommendation procedure throughout the department, and which will remain in force at least until January 15, due to forecasts of deterioration of ambient air quality.

Human activity as the main culprit

This deterioration in air quality is due to accumulation of fine particlesparticularly those less than 10 micrometers (PM10) and 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5). Current weather conditions, characterized by an anticyclone, low temperatures and weak winds, favor the stagnation of these pollutants.

According to the department's meteorological experts, the main sources of these fine particles are human activitiesnotably industry, domestic heating and even road traffic.

What to do in this situation?

To limit the impact of this episode of pollution, individual and collective actions are necessary. Initiatives could be considered in Calvados to encourage the use of public transport and reduce emissions linked to road traffic. It is also advisable to maintain normal ventilation in homes, while avoiding exposure to other irritating factors such as tobacco smoke or the use of solvents indoors.

Faced with this situation, the Calvados prefecture issued several recommendations. For sensitive and vulnerable people, it is advisable to limit outings, particularly in areas with heavy road traffic, to avoid intense physical activities, and to consult a doctor in the event of respiratory or cardiac discomfort. As for the general population, it is recommended to favor brief and less intense outings, as well as to reduce or postpone intense physical activities, in order to protect everyone's health during this episode of air pollution.

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