Air quality rated poor across Mexico City and nearby State of Mexico

At 3 p.m.

on Oct.

18, air quality across Mexico City and nearby State of Mexico was rated poor, with a high health risk.

The warning applies to people in the capital and surrounding urban areas, where authorities publish air and UV readings every hour.

Monitoring stations showed mixed local readings: many reported good or acceptable air, Azcapotzalco reported poor air, and some stations had no data or were under maintenance.

Children, older people and those with existing respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable to air pollution, so residents should take care when planning outdoor activities.

UV levels reached 4, a level for which authorities advise sun protection outdoors, including sunscreen, a hat and UV-filtering glasses for people with sensitive skin.

Authorities can use measures such as an environmental contingency and the Double Hoy No Circula driving restriction to address pollution, but no activation of these measures was reported.

Hourly monitoring will continue, and authorities may issue recommendations or take measures depending on pollution levels.