Due to the sand fog that arrived yesterday (Tuesday, May 17), Madininair initiated an alert procedure. The second daily health limit of 80 micrograms per cubic meter has actually been exceeded.
The phenomenon should continue for a few more days, as Gaëlle Grataloup, Madininair’s communications manager, explains:
It is an episode of sand mists of particulate origin, fine particles of desert origin, more precisely from the Sahara, crossing the Atlantic and reaching us. It’s pretty dense, and we’re also expecting to see over 100 micrograms per cubic meter exceedances tomorrow. It’s also an episode that lasts. In fact, there shouldn’t be any improvement before the end of the week, over the weekend. The phenomenon affects all of Martinique and contributes to pollution from road traffic and industrial activity.
In this regard, the Prefecture has taken a number of health measures:
Physical activity :
- Sports activities are prohibited in all schools and other establishments for minors or children.
Residential and tertiary sector:
- Outdoor burning of green waste is absolutely forbidden, exceptions for phytosanitary or agronomic reasons are suspended.
In the event of an infringement, the 3rd class fines provided for under the regulatory provisions of the Health Code are threatened, up to €450.
Other Recommendations:
- • Limit the use of individual motor vehicles.
- If possible, carpool or use public transport.
©Madininair / Forecast to exceed regulatory thresholds from May 18-20, 2022