Recommendations for safe driving in the face of the phenomenon of “black rain” due to forest fires in the Amazon, Paraguay and Bolivia were announced by the National Road Safety Agency (ANSV) in which it is warned that The forecast for the next few days will be dangerous for anyone behind the wheel.
“The presence of smoke on the road is one of the most dangerous situations for drivers, since Low visibility makes it difficult to clearly see what lies ahead on the road.such as other vehicles or curves,” the ANSV statement said.
He National Meteorological Service (SMN) had issued a Violet alert for 15 provinces due to the phenomenon arising from the forest fires that are developing in the Amazon, Paraguay and Bolivia. In this context, they detailed what the necessary actions While these extreme condition phenomena occur for reduce the risk and avoid road accidents by reducing speed, increasing the distance between vehicles and turning on low beams and fog lights.
In turn, Do not drive with the hazard lights on, keep the windshield clean and use the defogging system, apply the brakes gently and intermittently, and do not overtake.
Finally, it is requested Do not park on the shoulderonly if necessary, stop in a safe place, While riding a motorcycle, wear a helmet, light-colored clothing, and carry some reflective material.
So far in 2024, the Line 149 managed more than four thousand communications from different points of the national territory for various road accidents.
Black rain: what it means and when the weather phenomenon will arrive
This phenomenon occurs when a A column of smoke generated by fires in northern South America mixes with a cold front, producing rain contaminated with soot.
According to official sources, the probability of current conditions suggests that this phenomenon could take place during next weekendwhen atmospheric conditions and the accumulation of smoke in the air will be conducive to its development.
He soot is a particle composed primarily of carbon that results from the incomplete combustion of organic materials and fossil fuels. These small particles remain in the air for a long time and can travel considerable distances.
The black rain occurs When soot and other polluting particles in the atmosphere combine with moisture from clouds, causing rain that can have high levels of pollution.
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Photo: The Economist
Although rainwater may not appear black, the presence of soot indicates a high degree of pollution. This type of rain can damage bodies of water, soil and vegetation.
The term black rain refers to similar events, such as those that occurred in Hiroshima after the explosion of the atomic bomb in 1945, when rain picked up dust and soot from the atmosphere.
How it affects health
The smoke of the forest fires Not only does it reduce visibility, but it also has serious health effects. Particles in the air could cause complications for those with respiratory problems and the use of a face mask is recommended.
The risks are not limited to respiratory problems. Scientific studies have shown that even the smallest particles in smoke can enter the bloodstream, causing cellular damage and increasing the risk of heart disease, respiratory infections and even cancer.
Tips to keep in mind
- People should keep doors and windows closed.
- If you have air conditioning, you must turn it on, closing the outside air inlet, and keep the filter clean to prevent smoke from entering.
- Good indoor air quality must be maintained. Indoor air pollution must be increased.
- Do not smoke tobacco or any other products, as this will increase air pollution.
- If smoke concentrations are high, do not light anything that burns, such as candles or a fireplace.
- Do not vacuum because this moves particles that are already in the home.
- If people have asthma or other lung or cardiovascular disease, they should take their medications and call their doctor if symptoms worsen.
- If you leave your home, it is recommended that you wear a mask. Dust masks are not sufficient; they do not protect your lungs from smoke. However, N95 masks will provide some protection when used properly.
- Likewise, outdoor recreational and/or sporting activities must be limited.
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Courtesy: Conclusion
Source: Ambito
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