Air pollution in Metro Cebu may persist as cooler weather traps pollutants

Local

AIR pollution in Metro Cebu may persist in the coming days as cooler temperatures and unfavorable weather conditions prevent pollutants from dispersing, the Environmental Management Bureau-Central Visayas (EMB-7) said Friday, Oct. 9.

In its air quality status update, EMB-7 reported that as of 11 a.m. Friday, air quality index in Metro Cebu reached 158, falling under the “very unhealthy” category.

The agency attributed the deteriorating air quality to local emissions from vehicles, industrial operations and other sources, which have been aggravated by prevailing meteorological conditions.

"Low ambient temperatures, particularly at night until early morning, also contribute to the accumulation of fine particulate matter in the air," EMB-7 said.

The cooler conditions cause what the agency described as “temperature trapping,” which limits the ability of pollutants to disperse into the atmosphere as warm air rises.

EMB-7 said high PM2.5 concentrations could continue in the coming days because of localized emissions and prevailing weather conditions.

The agency's monitoring data also showed that PM10 concentrations remained within the guideline value of 150 micrograms per cubic meter. However, hourly readings from Oct. 1 to 7 showed a consistent increase in PM10 levels from 4 p.m. to midnight, following a trend similar to that observed in PM2.5 concentrations.

PM2.5 refers to fine inhalable particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs, while PM10 consists of larger inhalable particles. Exposure to elevated concentrations of particulate matter can pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups.

EMB-7 said the change in weather patterns also weakens the basis for attributing Metro Cebu's current air pollution to transboundary emissions from forest fires in Indonesia.

The agency said satellite monitoring and atmospheric modeling showed no patterns indicating transboundary pollution from Indonesian wildfires.

Localized rain showers, however, could help improve air quality by washing pollutants out of the atmosphere.

As pollution persists, EMB-7 urged the public to limit outdoor activities and wear appropriate N95 or KN95 masks when outdoor exposure is unavoidable.

"As these conditions persist, the public is strongly urged to limit outdoor activities with due

regard to public safety and health," the agency added.

People belonging to sensitive groups were also advised to remain indoors and seek medical attention in case of an emergency.

The agency encouraged local government units to implement measures to address pollution, including reducing emissions from vehicles and industrial sources, prohibiting open burning of waste, strengthening fire prevention and response measures, and pursuing greening and carbon-capture initiatives.(RBE)