Strong winds in Nuevo León unleashed chaos and pollution

In Nuevo León strong winds hit the state, causing fires, power outages, and severe air degradation.

This issue included fires, power outages, and an alarming degradation of air quality.

Fires and Material Damage

The wind gusts, which reached up to 70 km/h (43.5 mph), caused at least 37 fires in vacant lots, factories, and natural areas, such as the Santa Catarina River.

Additionally, the fall of 20 trees, five billboards, five poles, and seven cable lines was reported. This caused interruptions in the power supply and affected urban mobility.

Deterioration of Air Quality

Due to the fires and dust storms, the Nuevo León Environmental Secretariat activated an environmental contingency.

The concentrations of PM10 reached dangerous levels, affecting air quality. In the morning, it was rated as extremely poor, slightly improving by the afternoon, although it remained harmful to health.

Impact on Public Health

Exposure to high levels of PM10 poses health risks, especially for people with respiratory diseases, children, and the elderly.

Symptoms range from respiratory tract irritations to severe conditions like bronchitis and asthma exacerbation.

Authorities' Recommendations

Authorities recommended avoiding outdoor activities, closing doors and windows, and wearing masks when leaving home.

They also urged the population to stay alert to official communications and report any incidents related to the strong winds.

Reactions on Social Media

Users shared images and comments about the situation. They described Monterrey as a city with a post-apocalyptic appearance, due to the dense layer of pollution and the havoc caused by the gale.

Call to Update Environmental Standards

In light of the crisis, Congresswoman Lorena de la Garza Venecia urged to modify environmental standards in Nuevo León and nationwide.

The legislator highlighted the growing concern of families about air deterioration and the increase in respiratory diseases.

This event highlights the government's lack of preparedness for extreme weather phenomena. Meanwhile, as authorities react late, citizens face the consequences of inefficient environmental policies.