👉 The Puerto Fumes refer to a series of air pollution incidents that occurred in Puerto Rico in 2017, primarily affecting the capital city of San Juan. These events were caused by the failure of an industrial waste treatment facility, which released toxic chemicals, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), into the atmosphere. The pollutants created a thick, noxious haze that blanketed parts of the island, leading to severe health issues among residents, including respiratory problems, eye irritation, and other acute symptoms. The term "Puerto Fumes" has since become a symbol of environmental neglect and the urgent need for stricter regulations and improved waste management practices in Puerto Rico.
