Chile imposes air‑quality alerts in O’Higgins and Maule regions

On Monday, 25 May, regional authorities in Chile’s O’Higgins and Maule regions declared environmental alerts due to elevated particulate matter and poor ventilation in the central valley. The alerts enforce a ban on the use of wood‑fueled heaters, open fireplaces, and other high‑emission heating devices, permitting only certified pellet heaters.

The measures also limit indoor sports activities to moderate intensity and require compliance monitoring by health officials. Regional officials warned the population, especially children, the elderly and those with chronic respiratory conditions, to respect the restrictions. Susana Pinto, regional presidential delegate for O’Higgins, said the decision was “to improve air quality and protect health.” Felipe Massardo, Maule’s environment minister, called on residents to adopt “responsible behaviours to protect the health of the entire population.”