Mask advice issued as Lorca raises air pollution alert to Level 2

The Ayuntamiento activated the alert after Saharan dust caused particle pollution to rise well above the recommended level

People in Lorca are being asked to take extra care after the Ayuntamiento activated Level 2 of its air pollution protocol following a rise in particle pollution caused by Saharan dust.

The decision was taken after the town's air quality monitoring station recorded an average daily PM10 reading of 81.35 micrograms per cubic metre, above the level set for the alert.

According to the Ayuntamiento, another wave of Saharan dust has reached south-east Spain and is expected to affect the area until the end of the week. Forecasts suggest dust concentrations at ground level could range from 5 to 200 micrograms per cubic metre.

As a precaution, the Ayuntamiento is advising older people, young children and anyone with heart or lung conditions to wear FFP2 or FFP3 masks when outdoors. In more serious cases, vulnerable residents are also being encouraged to stay indoors until air quality improves.

María Hernández, Lorca's councillor for the Environment, said the Level 2 alert had been activated because of the latest Saharan dust intrusion affecting the region.

Anyone experiencing breathing difficulties or heart-related symptoms is advised to speak to a healthcare professional. Residents are also being encouraged to avoid strenuous outdoor exercise while pollution levels remain high.

The Ayuntamiento says it will continue monitoring air quality and recommends checking the latest updates through the Regional Government's air quality website.

Alongside the health advice, residents are also being asked to do what they can to help reduce emissions. The recommendations include:

-Using public transport or sharing journeys where possible.
-Driving efficiently and reducing speed.
-Avoiding the burning of agricultural waste.
-Turning off lights and electrical appliances when they are not needed.
-Using air conditioning and cooling systems efficiently to reduce energy use.

Saharan dust reaches Spain several times a year, particularly during the warmer months. While most people will only notice hazy skies or poorer visibility, it can have a much bigger impact on those with existing heart or lung conditions. Following the advice while dust levels remain high can help reduce the risk of health problems.

Read also: Millions in Spain exposed to air pollution above new Eu limits

Images: Archive