Protect Yourself: EPA issues Air Quality Alert for Georgetown and Coastal Areas

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a public advisory regarding the deteriorating air quality across the Low Coastal Plain, including Georgetown and surrounding areas. Since December 23, 2024, air quality has been in the ‘Unhealthy’ range, with conditions worsening to ‘Very Unhealthy’ in Georgetown. Meanwhile, Whim in Berbice is experiencing ‘Unhealthy’ air quality.

Current Situation

EPA’s air quality monitoring stations in Eccles and Central Georgetown have recorded PM2.5 levels that far exceed the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidelines for good air quality. The decline in air quality is primarily attributed to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5), caused by:

• Saharan Dust: Fine particles from the Saharan Air Layer, consisting of sand, dirt, and dust from North Africa, are carried across the Atlantic Ocean by upper atmospheric air currents.
• High Humidity: Contributing to the concentration and persistence of these particles in the air.

This combination has resulted in the visible haze enveloping the Low Coastal Plain, including Georgetown and its environs. The EPA forecasts that these conditions will persist until the late evening of December 26, 2024.

Protect Yourself: Precautionary Measures

Residents are strongly advised to take the following precautions to minimize health risks associated with poor air quality:
• Limit Outdoor Activities: Particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
• Wear Masks Outdoors: If outdoor activities are unavoidable, use a mask.
• Monitor Your Health: Seek medical advice if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or other respiratory issues.

The EPA is closely monitoring air quality conditions and will provide regular updates as necessary. For near real-time updates on the Air Quality Index in your area, visit the EPA’s website: https://epaguyana.org/