Atmo announces an episode for tomorrow in Nord and Pas-de-Calais
The presence of an anticyclone over Hauts-de-France prevents the dispersion of PM10 particles, produced by economic activity and traffic. The recommendations…
Atmo Hauts-de-France predicts an episode of PM10 particle pollution in Nord and Pas-de-Calais tomorrow, Thursday January 13.
PM10 particles are particles in suspension. Their main origins are linked to economic activity (industrial and agricultural), automobile traffic and heating.
Particle emissions from our territory tend to accumulate. Ambient concentrations are increasing in the Nord and Pas-de-Calais.
They must remain below the threshold this Wednesday but must exceed tomorrow. The current conditions (weak winds, high pressure) do not allow good dispersion of pollutants in the air. This episode is favored by the presence of the high pressure system and poor dispersion conditions.
The prefects inform that the recommended or mandatory measures for the reduction of pollutant emissions, adapted according to the situation, are available from the prefectures of the department. All the recommendations are available on the websites of the prefectures.
. use the least polluting means of transport: bicycle, public transport, carpooling …
. reduce traffic speed
. reduce pollutant emissions from economic actors (industry and agriculture)
. control energy consumption linked to heating (particularly wood, which emits atmospheric pollutants)
. do not burn green waste in the open
- Can you go out with an infant during a pollution episode? Exits outside can be maintained but of limited duration, and away from sources of pollution (roads).
- Can you continue to ventilate your home during a pollution episode? In the event of a pollution peak, it is recommended to continue with the usual aeration and ventilation practices: ventilate your home for 10 to 15 minutes, once or twice a day.
- Is it recommended to wear a mask during a pollution episode? The masks are often not FFP1 certified, especially for cyclists, and therefore almost ineffective with regard to atmospheric pollution. Rather, it is recommended to drive calmly, and to adapt your route, away from the axes with heavy traffic. The recommendations or obligations concerning the wearing of a mask in connection with the COVID epidemic are for their part priority and issued by the competent authorities (ARS, Prefecture).
- Are you also exposed inside your vehicle? The interior of a vehicle does not protect against air pollution present outside, and even concentrates the pollutants inside. It is recommended to ventilate your vehicle regularly to reduce the concentration of pollutants inside. It is best to avoid avoiding your vehicle near sources of pollution (heavy traffic, tunnels), and during times of the day when the pollution level is the highest.