SingaporeHaze in Singapore
Air quality falls back into unhealthy range overnight due to haze from southern Sumatra fires and dry conditions. The 24-hour PSI reading in the central region stood at 110 and the west at 102 at 6am on Oct 5.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
The air quality in parts of Singapore dipped back into the unhealthy range again early on Oct 5, with the 24-hour PSI reading at 6am in the central region standing at 110 and the west at 102.
PM2.5 readings, which are used as a gauge for immediate activities, were elevated in two of the five regions across Singapore, with the central region at 93 and the west at 81.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) said moderate to dense smoke plumes from southern Sumatra continued to drift towards Singapore and the surrounding region, and smoke haze was observed from fires in Kalimantan.
Dry conditions are forecast to continue over Singapore and the surrounding region on Oct 5, with the risk of smoke haze affecting the Republic remaining as the prevailing winds are expected to blow from the south-east or south-west.
The PSI crossed into the unhealthy range four weeks ago, hitting 101 in central Singapore on the morning of Sept 4, and the highest reading of the year was 167 in central Singapore on Sept 29.
Some experts have predicted that the haze in Singapore this year could last for a longer period due to the 2026 'Godzilla' El Nino event, which could reduce rainfall and result in higher temperatures.
The NEA advised the public to refer to the 1-hour PM2.5 readings and corresponding personal guide for immediate outdoor activities, and the 24-hour PSI forecast and health advisories for planning outdoor activities for the next day.
Key facts
- The 24-hour PSI reading in the central region stood at 110 and the west at 102 at 6am on Oct 5.
- PM2.5 readings were elevated in two of the five regions across Singapore.
- The NEA forecast the 24-hour PSI to be in the high moderate to low unhealthy range for the next 24 hours.
- The haze in Singapore is caused by fires in southern Sumatra and Kalimantan.
Three perspectives
Neutral
The air quality in Singapore is expected to remain in the unhealthy range due to the haze from southern Sumatra fires and dry conditions. The public is advised to take necessary precautions and follow the NEA's guidelines for outdoor activities. The situation will be monitored closely by the authorities.
Positive
The NEA is taking proactive measures to inform the public about the air quality and provide guidance on how to minimize the impact of the haze. The public can take steps to protect themselves by reducing outdoor activities and wearing masks.
Negative
The haze in Singapore is causing unhealthy air quality, which can have adverse effects on people's health, especially those with chronic lung or heart disease. The situation is expected to persist due to the El Nino event, which could lead to a longer period of haze.
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