Fine particle pollution in Ile-de-France and the northern half of France

Published by My de Sortiraparis, Julie de Sortiraparis, Margot de Sortiraparis · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Published on January 15, 2025 at 04:51 p.m.
For the past two days, an episode of fine particle PM 2.5 pollution has been severely degrading air quality across a large northern half of France, from Brittany to Ile-de-France, via Hauts-de-France and Normandy. This is due to freezing temperatures, which trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating an already worrying phenomenon for public health.

For several days now, air quality has been deteriorating in large parts of France, including the Île-de-France region. This episode of fine particle PM 2.5 pollution, caused in particular by heating and road traffic, is intensifying under the effect of a persistent cold snap. Health authorities are calling for vigilance in the face of a direct threat to health.

An alert covering several regions

From Brittany to Hauts-de-France, via Normandy and Île-de-France, concentrations of fine particles have been exceeding alert thresholds in several areas for the past two days. These particles, with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns, are light enough to penetrate deep into the respiratory tract, causing serious health effects, particularly in the most vulnerable populations: children, the elderly, pregnant women and people suffering from respiratory pathologies.

In Brittany, Air Breizh describes air quality as "very poor", an unusual situation for this region. Speed restrictions have been introduced in Ille-et-Vilaine in an attempt to reduce emissions. In Paris and the surrounding region, alternating traffic may be considered if conditions persist.

Why is this pollution getting worse?

The situation can be explained by current weather conditions. In winter, the layer of air close to the ground compresses under the effect of the cold, trapping pollutants. The main sources identified are heating, particularly wood-burning, and older diesel vehicles. These activities amplify air saturation with PM 2.5.

Atmo Nouvelle-Aquitaine points out a paradox: indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air, as it accumulates pollutants from furniture, household products and insufficient ventilation. It is therefore recommended to air homes briefly, preferably early in the morning, when outdoor pollution levels are lower.

Precautions to take

In view of this episode, the authorities are advising people to limit their physical activity, particularly outdoors. Regular athletes, especially joggers, are advised to postpone their workouts. To get around, citizens are encouraged to use public transport or reduce the use of their private vehicles.

Wood heating, which is often singled out for criticism, should be avoided wherever possible, as should fuels that emit high levels of fine particles. In the Île-de-France region, where concentrations are particularly high, additional measures may be adopted in the coming days.

A situation that's taking hold

According to Prév'air, the national air quality platform, this pollution is set to persist and could extend as far as Auvergne and Champagne-Ardenne this Wednesday. Forecasts indicate that concentrations will remain high until at least the end of the week.

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.

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 don't change your usual ventilation practices.
Practical information
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