Although the effects on the peninsula will be less, you should avoid doing physical activity outdoors and take shelter during these two days.

The Regional Autonomous Corporation of La Guajira is constantly monitoring the situation of sulfur dioxide cloud - atmospheric pollutant- in the department. Although the effects on the peninsula will be less compared to other regions of the country, air quality will be affected, so it is suggested that the population avoid leaving their homes during today and tomorrow.

from 09:00 hours of this Wednesday, a slight increase in sulfur dioxide values ​​began to be seen (SO₂) in the northernmost part of the department with records close to the 40 mg/m² (total column) in accordance with what was stated by IDEAM. In Riohacha the records show values ​​between 10 mg/m² and 15 mg/m².

This event is presented because last week the La Soufriere volcano, located on the island of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, went into eruption activity emitting a large amount of gases and particles, these emissions reached a height of approximately 10 kilometers above the surface of the island, which is approximately to 1280 kilometers east of Riohacha.

The environmental authority recommends that the Guajiros avoid physical activity outdoors, as SO2 can cause inflammation in the airways. This should be applied more rigorously to people with asthma, hypertension and coronary problems; take shelter during the days mentioned. If you must leave, Please wear a mask and goggles to avoid possible eye irritation; cover water sources such as containers, wells or ponds; be attentive to the information that the relevant authorities may provide in this regard.

La Guajira is a department that due to its location and atmospheric conditions (high temperatures and high wind speeds) pollutants disperse quickly without causing harm to its inhabitants. The concentrations are expected to fall from the weekend and return to normal.

The corporation will continue to monitor this event and in the event of having to take an additional measure, the entire community will be informed.