The Delegación Presidencial de la Región Metropolitana has declared an Environmental Alert for the entire Santiago basin for Sunday, July 12. This measure, recommended by the Seremi del Medio Ambiente, aims to protect public health as meteorological conditions are expected to hinder the dispersion of pollutants across the capital.
Meteorological Conditions and Air Quality
The Dirección Meteorológica de Chile (DMC) reports that a weakened anticyclonic regime and an upper-level ridge are expected to dominate the region on Sunday. Forecasters anticipate no coastal advection toward the Santiago basin, with temperatures set to range between 7°C and 25°C. These conditions contribute to the poor dispersion of air pollutants.
Prior to the alert, air quality across the capital remained stable. Stations within the Ministry of the Environment’s monitoring network recorded air quality levels ranging between “Good” and “Regular” throughout Saturday.
Did You Know?
The prohibition on agricultural burning is a seasonal mandate in the Metropolitan Region that remains in effect from March 1 to October 31, regardless of daily environmental alerts.
Operational Restrictions and Enforcement
Under the Environmental Alert, several restrictions are now in effect to manage emissions. The use of residential heaters fueled by wood or other wood derivatives is prohibited, with the sole exception of pellet-burning systems. Compliance is monitored by the Seremi de Salud Metropolitana, with additional support from municipal authorities and Carabineros.
Agricultural burning remains strictly prohibited throughout the Metropolitan Region. This measure is enforced by the Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG) and the Corporación Nacional Forestal (Conaf). While these restrictions are in place, authorities confirmed that there will be no vehicular restrictions on Sunday, as current policy excludes weekends from such measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pellet heaters allowed during the alert?
Yes, pellet-burning heaters are specifically exempted from the ban on wood-based residential heating.
Is there a vehicular restriction this Sunday?
No. Authorities have clarified that vehicular restrictions do not apply on weekends.
Who is responsible for enforcing the burning ban?
The Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG) and the Corporación Nacional Forestal (Conaf) are the agencies responsible for monitoring and enforcing the prohibition on agricultural burning.
How will these air quality measures impact your plans for the weekend?