SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) is advising the public to take necessary precautions following the Air Quality Advisory issued by the Meteorological Department St. Maarten, which indicates that deteriorating air quality conditions are expected from 12:00 p.m. today, Thursday 10 September 2026, until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, 12 September 2026.
According to the advisory, air quality levels are forecast to reach the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category due to elevated concentrations of fine airborne particles. Individuals who are particularly vulnerable, including persons with asthma, chronic respiratory illnesses, heart conditions, allergies, older adults, pregnant women, and young children, may experience adverse health effects.
The Ministry notes that exposure to airborne particulate matter may result in coughing, throat and eye irritation, shortness of breath, wheezing, headaches, and aggravation of existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Recommended Preventive Measures
The Ministry encourages residents to take the following precautions:
*Limit outdoor activities, particularly prolonged or strenuous exercise.
*Remain indoors as much as possible, especially during periods of visible haze or poor air quality.
*Keep doors and windows closed when practical to reduce the entry of dust and airborne particles.
*Use air conditioning on recirculation mode or air filtration systems where possible or available.
*Persons who must be outdoors for extended periods should consider wearing a properly fitted KN95 or N95 mask.
*Individuals with asthma, allergies, chronic lung disease, or heart conditions should carry and use prescribed medications as directed.
*Drink adequate amounts of water and avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and other indoor pollutants.
*Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing significant breathing difficulties, chest pain, severe coughing, or worsening of existing medical conditions.
Guidance for Employers of Outdoor Workers
Employers of workers whose duties require outdoor presence, including but not limited to construction, landscaping, waste collection, delivery, and outdoor security, are reminded of their obligation under the Safety Ordinance to protect workers from harmful airborne substances, including the provision of appropriate respiratory protection at no cost to the worker where outdoor work cannot reasonably be postponed or relocated.
The Ministry of VSA advises employers to assess whether outdoor work scheduled during this advisory period can be rescheduled, shortened, or supplemented with increased rest and hydration breaks, and to give particular attention to employees with known respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
The Ministry of VSA will continue to monitor the situation in collaboration with the Meteorological Department St. Maarten and other relevant authorities. Residents are encouraged to follow official government channels and meteorological updates for the latest information.
Protecting your health during periods of reduced air quality is a shared responsibility. By taking simple preventive actions, residents can significantly reduce the risk of adverse health effects associated with airborne particles and haze.
