Dust to dust: Toxic haze blankets Bangkok and beyond
A thick shroud of ultrafine dust pollution has descended upon Bangkok and 53 of Thailand’s 76 provinces, leaving the air quality in a perilous state, according to the latest findings from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). The Central Plains and the east bore the brunt of this hazardous haze.
GISTDA’s report, released at 8am, today, February 14, highlighted alarmingly high PM2.5 levels across the capital and 27 provinces, pushing past the safe limit of 37.5 microgrammes per cubic metre and soaring into the danger zone with readings between 75.7 and 112.4.
Topping the list was Trat, choking under a PM2.5 level of 112.4, followed by Bangkok at 103.7, and Pathum Thani at 102.5. Samut Prakan, Chachoengsao, and Chon Buri also reported staggering figures above the 100 mark.
A further 22 provinces weren’t spared, grappling with hazardous PM2.5 concentrations, including Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, Saraburi, and Nonthaburi.
Meanwhile, 26 more provinces faced an orange warning, denoting significant health risks from PM2.5 levels ranging from 39.7 to 74.6. Regions such as Khon Kaen, Loei, Nan, Nong Khai, Phuket, Songkhla, and Tak were all caught in the smog’s grip.
Amidst the grim figures, a silver lining emerged for residents in 23 provinces enjoying very good, good, or moderate air quality, Bangkok Post reported.
Amnat Charoen stood out with pristine air, while provinces including Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Ranong breathed easier with good air quality.
Meanwhile, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a weather forecast cautioning residents in South Thailand of thunderstorms and high seas, while the upper regions of Thailand will experience cool mornings with fog and hot afternoons.
The forecast predicts a weak high-pressure system will cover the northeastern areas and the South China Sea, causing the upper regions to be cool in the morning and hot during the day.
Mountain peaks will experience cold to very cold weather. Residents are advised to take care of their health due to changing conditions, be cautious of fire hazards due to dry conditions, and drive carefully in foggy areas.
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