In February 2026, authorities in the Valley of Mexico declared an environmental contingency for five consecutive days in response to critical levels of air pollution. This measure was enacted to mitigate health risks posed by pollutants exceeding permissible limits, which mandated immediate actions to curb vehicular emissions and safeguard the health of the public, particularly in the densely populated areas. The contingency plans are particularly crucial for regions like Mexico City, where air quality can deteriorate rapidly due to high traffic and industrial activities.

The environmental contingency is defined by the Megalopolis Environmental Commission as a preventive measure taken when air quality reaches dangerous levels. Its primary goal is to protect public health by reducing exposure to harmful pollutants known to exacerbate respiratory diseases among the population. The specific criteria for activation involve monitoring air quality indicators, which trigger the enforcement of restrictions to limit emissions from vehicles and factories, ensuring immediate action to improve air quality.

Overall, the implementation of an environmental contingency reflects ongoing concerns over air quality management in megacities like Mexico City. As air pollution continues to pose significant health challenges, understanding the thresholds for activating such measures becomes vital for public awareness and compliance. Regular updates from environmental authorities about pollution levels and emergency responses are essential for informing citizens and guiding effective community actions against air pollution.