Why speed is reduced in Paris this Friday, June 20…

On Friday June 20, Paris was suffocating in ozone. Discover the exceptional measures put in place to limit air pollution and its effects on health.

Peak ozone pollution triggers alert

On June 20, 2025, air quality in the Paris Region is rated “poor” by Airparif, due to high ozone levels. This pollution is exacerbated by the hot weather. In response, the Paris Prefecture de Police has announced a number of temporary restrictions to limit pollutant emissions.

Speed limits on all roads in the Paris region

Motorists must reduce their speed by 20 km/h over the usual limits:

• Freeways normally limited to 130 km/h → limited to 110 km/h
• Expressways usually 110 km/h → 90 km/h
• National and departmental roads, even if limited to 80 or 90 km/h → 70 km/h maximum

The aim is to reduce traffic-related emissions of harmful gases, notably nitrogen oxides and fine particles.

A reminder of the environmental challenges facing Paris

This alert is also a reminder that Paris remains a sensitive area for air pollution. City Hall and the authorities are taking action with :

• Low Emission Zone (LEZ)
• the gradual pedestrianization of certain districts
• development of soft mobility

The right gestures to adopt

• Avoid outdoor sports activities in the middle of the day
• Air your home early in the morning or late at night
• Consult pollution forecasts on Airparif.fr
• Favour shaded green spaces, see our selection of parks