The Generalitat has activated a preventive ozone alert (#ozóCAT) in the Camp de Tarragona and Plana de Vic, where high concentrations of this gas are predicted. In the rest of Catalonia, levels will remain regular. This notice is part of the ongoing air quality monitoring by the Department of Ecological Transition.
Tropospheric ozone (O₃), unlike the protective stratospheric layer, is an atmospheric pollutant near the ground. It is not emitted directly but forms from the reaction of pollutants from traffic and industry under solar radiation and high temperatures, being more common during heatwaves and central daylight hours.
Inhaling ozone at high levels can cause irritation to the respiratory tract and eyes, leading to symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, or sore throat. It can also worsen pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma. Sensitive groups include children, the elderly, individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, and those engaging in intense outdoor physical activity.
In light of these episodes, it is recommended to limit intense outdoor physical exercise, especially during peak concentration hours, and to monitor air quality levels.
