The Presidential Delegation of the Metropolitan Region has declared an Environmental Alert for Tuesday, June 2, 2026. This preventive measure, recommended by the Regional Ministry of the Environment, was issued to protect the health of residents due to anticipated adverse ventilation conditions within the Santiago basin.
Atmospheric Conditions and Health Safeguards
While air quality monitoring stations remained within the “Regular” and “Good” ranges throughout Monday, June 1, meteorological shifts have prompted this intervention. Forecasters noted a weakened anticyclonic regime at the surface and the entry of an upper-level trough, conditions that typically hinder air dispersion.
To mitigate potential health risks, authorities have issued a strict prohibition on the use of residential wood-burning heaters across the entire Metropolitan Region. The only exception to this rule is the use of wood pellet heaters.
Enforcement and Vehicle Restrictions
Compliance with the heating ban will be monitored by the Regional Ministry of Health, local municipalities, and Carabineros. Residents can report the unauthorized use of wood heaters by calling 600 360 7777. Similarly, agricultural burning will be overseen by the Regional Ministry of Agriculture, SAG, and Conaf, with reports directed to the Conaf hotline at 130.
The Ministry of Transport has also implemented a vehicle restriction calendar, enforced by Carabineros, the Ministry of Transport’s Enforcement Unit, and the capital’s surveillance camera network. The specific restrictions are as follows:
- Automobiles (Green Seal): In the provinces of Santiago, San Bernardo, and Puente Alto, restriction applies to digits 0 and 1.
- Automobiles (No Green Seal): Inside the Américo Vespucio ring, restriction applies to all digits (0–9). Outside the ring within Santiago, San Bernardo, and Puente Alto, restriction applies to digits 0, 1, 2, and 3.
- Motorcycles: In the provinces of Santiago, San Bernardo, and Puente Alto, restriction applies to digits 0 and 1.
- Freight and Pickup Trucks (No Green Seal): Within the Américo Vespucio ring, restriction applies to digits 0, 1, 2, and 3. Vehicles with a green seal face no restrictions.
Guidelines for Schools and Physical Activity
The Regional Ministry of Education has advised that physical education classes should not be suspended during this alert. Instead, the ministry suggests modifying the intensity of these activities to avoid high-exertion efforts.
To minimize oxygen consumption, officials recommend that these activities be conducted ideally under a roof and focus on learning objectives that do not require strenuous physical strain.
What to Expect Next
As the alert remains in effect through Tuesday, residents may see increased monitoring and inspections by health and transport authorities. The effectiveness of these measures in stabilizing air quality will likely depend on how strictly the heating and vehicle restrictions are observed throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my wood stove today?
No. The use of wood-burning heaters and other wood derivatives is prohibited throughout the Metropolitan Region, except for those using wood pellets.
How can I report illegal agricultural burning?
Reports of illegal agricultural burning can be made by calling the Conaf hotline at 130.
Do schools have to cancel physical education classes?
No. The Ministry of Education suggests modifying the intensity of activities to avoid high-exertion efforts, ideally performing them indoors.
How do these environmental restrictions affect your daily routine?
