An episode of air pollution is affecting the department. The authorities call for vigilance and issue a series of recommendations for all audiences.
Since the morning of Thursday, June 19, 2025, a significant concentration of ozone has been observed in the air of the Alpes-Maritimes. This pollution peak is linked to high temperatures and strong sunlight, conditions that promote the formation of ozone through photochemical reactions.
Faced with this situation, the prefecture triggers alert level 1 starting Friday, June 20. This level corresponds to exceeding the information threshold for two consecutive days. It results in the implementation of health and behavioral measures.
Actions to take to limit risks
The alert procedure involves the application of recommendations for the entire population. It aims to reduce exposure to pollutants, especially for sensitive or vulnerable people.
The general public is invited to limit physical exertion, indoors and outdoors. Special attention is requested for the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. In all cases, airing out premises for at least 10 minutes a day is advised.
Transportation is also targeted. Authorities ask to reduce speeds by 20 km/h on roads, without going below 70 km/h. It is also recommended to favor carpooling, public transportation, or non-polluting modes of travel. Short journeys should be prioritized, and non-urgent trips can be postponed.
Agricultural activities must also adapt. The spreading of fertilizers and soil work should be postponed. The use of organic solvents or non-electric tools is also discouraged.
In the industrial sector, operators of classified installations are called upon to respect the specific prescriptions provided in the event of exceeding the alert threshold. These rules are stipulated in the operating permits.
Finally, open-air burning of plants remains prohibited, and controlling the temperature in buildings is encouraged to limit the use of air conditioning.
A procedure that could evolve
The vigilance map published by the prefecture shows a change in the situation between June 19 and 20. The Alpes-Maritimes department, initially under a simple information procedure, moves to alert level 1. Vaucluse and Bouches-du-Rhône move to alert level 2.
The evolution of ozone concentrations will be closely monitored in the coming days. Depending on the readings, the alert procedure could be extended or reinforced. The prefect calls for everyone’s responsibility to limit pollutant emissions and preserve air quality.
For more information on current recommendations, the AtmoSud website centralizes information related to air quality and instructions to follow according to alert levels.
