Ozone pollution triggers alerts in Valladolid and Sevilla

A severe heatwave across the Iberian Peninsula has caused tropospheric ozone levels to exceed legal limits in several Spanish cities, most notably Valladolid and Sevilla. The high temperatures and intense solar radiation have accelerated the reaction between sunlight and nitrogen oxides or organic compounds from traffic and industry.

In Valladolid, authorities have activated ‘Situation 2, Warning’ after monitoring stations recorded three consecutive days with values above 120 micrograms per cubic meter. This has triggered local restrictions, including a 30 km/h speed limit in Low Emission Zones and free use of interceptor parking lots. Environmental groups noted that the city reached its highest ozone peak since 2013, with concentrations hitting 189 micrograms per cubic meter.

In Sevilla, the Sierra Norte station recorded levels of 202 micrograms per cubic meter, surpassing the information threshold. Civil Protection has issued health recommendations, advising sensitive groups—such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues—to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Experts suggest performing physical tasks only in the early morning or late at night to minimize exposure.