Fine particle pollution in Paris and the Ile-de-France region this Wednesday, recommendations

For several days now, air quality has been deteriorating in parts of France, including the Île-de-France region. This episode of fine particle PM 10 pollution, caused in particular by heating and road traffic, is intensifying. Health authorities are calling for vigilance in the face of a direct threat to health.

According to Airparif, the information threshold for fine particulate matter is likely to reach 50 µg/m³, thus exceeding current standards. This situation is the result of a combination of unfavorable meteorological factors, notably sunshine and a lack of wind. The entire Île-de-France region is affected by this deterioration in air quality.

Faced with this situation, the Préfecture de Police de Paris is advising Parisians to postpone their trips, to use the least polluting vehicles, to favor alternative modes of transport such as carpooling or public transport, and to reduce their speed on major roads. For its part, theAgence Régionale de Santé (ARS) advises vulnerable and sensitive populations to limit prolonged outings, avoid areas with heavy road traffic, and consult a health professional in the event of respiratory discomfort.

Supplementary or pleasure wood heating for individual use also prohibited

In order to reduce pollution, Prefect Laurent Nuñez has ordered a reduction in maximum authorized speeds this Wednesday, from 5:30 a.m. to midnight. According to the prefectoral communiqué, speeds will be limited to 110 km/h on roads usually capped at 130 km/h, to 90 km/h on those limited to 110 km/h, and to 70 km/h on sections where the limit is usually 90 or 80 km/h. In addition, the prefectoral statement specifies that the use of individual wood-burning appliances is prohibited.

It's essential to remember that exposure to fine particles has harmful effects on health. According to a recent study, between 12% and 20% of new cases of respiratory illness in children are linked to this pollution, representing between 7,000 and 40,000 young patients. In adults, between 7 and 13% of cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic diseases are attributed to this type of pollution, representing between 4,000 and 78,000 cases.

During this period of fine particle pollution, remember to follow the authorities' recommendations to limit exposure and protect your health.

Recommendations for vulnerable and sensitive populations

In all cases

• In the event of respiratory or cardiac problems, seek advice from a health professional.
• Choose shorter outings and those requiring the least effort.
• Consult your doctor to find out if your medical treatment needs to be adapted.

• To be read
• Tips for the week of March 3 - 9, 2025 in Paris: free or inexpensive outings
• Good Plan: free museums and monuments to visit this Sunday, April 6 in Paris

In the event of a pollution episode involving the following pollutants : PM10, NO2, SO2

• Avoid areas with heavy traffic during peak periods
• prefer moderate activities

General population

In all cases :

• In the event of respiratory or cardiac discomfort, seek advice from a health professional.
• Choose shorter outings and those requiring the least effort.

In the event of pollution episodes involving PM10, NO2, SO2 :

• Reduce or postpone intense physical and sporting activities (including competitions).

In general :

• Take care not to aggravate the effects of this pollution by engaging in other activities that emit pollutants (smoking).
• The situation during a pollution episode does not justify confinement measures, so do not change your usual ventilation practices.