(Lyon, December 28, 2025) — An episode of atmospheric particle pollution has been underway since Sunday in the Lyon basin and Nord-Isère, prompting authorities to issue air quality recommendations.
Authorities in France’s Rhône department have activated a first-level alert due to elevated levels of PM10 pollutants, advising vulnerable populations to limit exposure.
- An air pollution episode began Sunday, December 28, in the Lyon basin and Nord-Isère.
- The Rhône Prefecture activated the information-recommendation level for the entire Rhône department and the Lyon Metropolis.
- Vulnerable populations are advised to limit travel and intense activities during peak pollution periods.
- Authorities are recommending measures to reduce emissions from heating, transportation, and industry.
The Rhône Prefecture activated the information-recommendation level – the first level of alert – for the entire Rhône department and the Lyon Metropolis, according to a statement. While no measures are currently binding, the Prefecture recommends that vulnerable populations “limit travel on major roads and their surroundings during peak periods and to limit intense activities, both outdoors and indoors.”
For the general population, the Prefecture stated, “there is no intention to modify usual activities, usual movements or aeration and ventilation practices,” but suggests consulting a pharmacist if symptoms or concerns arise.
Recommended Actions
Table of Contents
Authorities have outlined several steps individuals and organizations can take to help improve air quality. These include stopping the use of older wood-burning appliances (inserts, stoves, and boilers installed before 2000) and generators. Residents are also advised to maintain home temperatures at or below 19°C (66°F) and to opt for less polluting modes of transportation, such as cycling, public transport, or carpooling.
The Prefecture also recalled existing regulations, including a prohibition on burning green waste and the use of “open hearth” fireplaces within the Metropolis of Lyon. Vehicles classified Crit’air 5, 4, and 3, or those without classification, are prohibited within the Lyon Metropolis’s Low Emission Zone (ZFE).
Guidance for Sectors
Local authorities and transport agencies are encouraged to promote dust suppression techniques, such as humidification and watering, particularly around roads and construction sites. They are also advised to reduce activity at dust-generating construction sites and to facilitate teleworking and the use of park-and-ride facilities. Farmers are asked to postpone burning and practice grinding instead, and to suspend open-air burning of agricultural by-products. Industrialists are advised to postpone emissions-generating operations and to activate reinforced pollution control systems where available.
What This Means for You
The current air quality alert primarily impacts individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, as well as young children and the elderly. If you fall into one of these categories, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak pollution times is advisable. For all residents, being mindful of transportation choices and heating practices can contribute to improving air quality in the region. Further information on air quality in the region is available on the website of the approved air quality monitoring association (AASQA): www.atmo-auvergnerhonealpes.fr.
Time.news based this report on information released by the Rhône Prefecture and added independent context.
