On Sunday, April 26, 2026, environmental authorities in Mexico City and the State of Mexico maintained an active environmental contingency due to elevated air pollution levels, triggering the Hoy No Circula vehicle restriction program for the day. The measure, designed to reduce vehicular emissions during periods of poor air quality, remained in effect across the metropolitan area as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public health.
The contingency was declared in response to high concentrations of airborne pollutants, particularly ozone and particulate matter, which exceeded thresholds set by the Megalopolis Environmental Commission (CAMe). Officials confirmed that the restriction would apply based on license plate endings, following the standard Hoy No Circula protocol for Sundays during environmental alerts. Vehicles with license plates ending in 5 or 6 were prohibited from circulating between 5:00 a.m. And 10:00 p.m., while hybrid and electric vehicles remained exempt under the program’s current guidelines.
According to verified reports from local news outlets, the decision to maintain the contingency reflected persistent atmospheric conditions that limited pollutant dispersion, including low wind speeds and high solar radiation, which contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone. Authorities urged residents to limit outdoor physical activity, especially during peak pollution hours, and to employ public transportation or carpooling where possible to reduce emissions.
The Hoy No Circula program, a key component of the region’s air quality management strategy, operates under the framework of the Environmental Law of the Federal District and the Law on Environmental Protection for the State of Mexico. During environmental contingencies, the program expands its restrictions beyond the usual Saturday schedule to include Sundays, aiming to cut vehicle-related emissions by up to 40 percent on affected days.
Environmental agencies, including the Mexico City Secretariat of the Environment (SEDEMA) and the State of Mexico’s Environmental Protection Agency (PROPAEM), continued monitoring air quality in real time through the CAMe network. Official updates were made available via the government’s Air Quality Index website and mobile alerts, allowing the public to track changes and comply with active restrictions.
As of the latest reports, no immediate timeline had been provided for lifting the contingency, with officials stating that the decision would depend on sustained improvements in air quality metrics over the following hours. Residents were advised to consult official channels for any changes to the Hoy No Circula schedule or contingency status.
For those seeking real-time information, the Megalopolis Environmental Commission provides hourly updates through its official website and social media channels, while local authorities disseminate alerts via municipal websites and emergency notification systems. Continued adherence to vehicle restrictions and reduced emissions practices remains critical during active environmental alerts to protect public health and support pollution reduction efforts.
Stay informed through official environmental channels for the latest updates on air quality and mobility restrictions in Mexico City and the State of Mexico.
We invite readers to share their experiences and observations regarding the Hoy No Circula program and air quality measures in the comments below, and to share this article to help spread awareness about environmental health initiatives in the region.