Washington has become the most polluted metropolis in the world on the night of July 4th, due to a fireworks display with 850,000 shots.

On the night from Saturday to Sunday, Washington was reported as the most polluted metropolis in the world, according to IQAir, due to a fireworks display organized for the United States' national day. The company Pyrotecnico, hired for the event, launched 850,000 fireworks, which led to a significant deterioration in air quality.

Monitoring showed an alarming increase in fine particle concentrations, exceeding 200 micrograms per cubic meter, well above the limit of 35 micrograms set by the EPA. A 'purple code' warning was issued, indicating dangerous air quality for the entire population.

Although the EPA spokesperson defended the show, experts warned about the health risks. Subsequent rains helped improve air quality, but the event sparked controversy regarding its environmental impact. Pyrotecnico has requested approval for a world record for the largest fireworks display, but the outcome remains pending.