Bangkok in a chokehold: Smog blankets the city (video)
Bangkok is on high alert this week as residents prepare for a choking blanket of smog set to engulf the city and its surrounding areas.
The Pollution Control Department (PCD) sounded the alarm, warning that from today, December 2, until Friday, December 6, a thick haze will shroud the capital, thanks to smoke billowing from nearby farmland and stagnant air over Bangkok and its neighbouring provinces.
The department’s recent report reveals a worrying spike in hot spots across Thailand, with a staggering 184 detected just the day before.
Alarmingly, around 140 of these hot spots are attributed to agricultural fires. Northeasterly winds have driven this smoke southwestward, directly impacting Bangkok’s already fragile air quality, reported Bangkok Post.
The outlook for the rest of the week doesn’t bode well. A surge of cold air in the northeast is expected to create stagnant atmospheric conditions over Greater Bangkok, allowing fine dust particles to gather in the air and significantly deteriorate pollution levels.
However, there is a glimmer of hope, said a PCD spokesperson.
“The air pollution is predicted to improve from Saturday onwards, as increased air movement is expected to disperse the pollutants.”
In the meantime, Bangkok’s residents are urged to take every precaution possible. Those with respiratory issues are particularly advised to stay indoors throughout the week and use air purifiers wherever possible to mitigate the impact of the noxious air.
With the smog situation poised to reach hazardous levels, the city’s iconic skyline is likely to be obscured by a gritty layer of pollution, serving as a stark reminder of the environmental challenges faced by bustling urban centres such as Bangkok.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Breathe Safe Air highlights the alarming air pollution crisis in Thailand, particularly in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, urging awareness and precautions for visitors to protect their health. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why does agricultural burning significantly impact urban air quality?
Smoke from fires travels with winds, contributing to city pollution and worsening air quality conditions.
How does atmospheric stagnation exacerbate air pollution in cities like Bangkok?
Stagnant air prevents pollutants from dispersing, causing them to accumulate and intensify pollution levels.
What if Bangkok implemented stricter regulations on agricultural burning?
Stricter rules could reduce smoke emissions, potentially improving air quality and lowering health risks.
How can increased air movement help alleviate smog conditions?
Enhanced airflow disperses pollutants, reducing their concentration and improving overall air quality.
Why is it crucial for individuals with respiratory issues to take precautions during smog events?
Pollutants can aggravate respiratory conditions, making it vital to minimize exposure to protect health.
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