Chiang Mai faces world’s second-worst air quality amid pollution crisis

Northern Thailand is currently grappling with severe air pollution, with Chiang Mai experiencing the second-worst air quality globally. As of today, March 8, air quality monitoring has revealed that particulate matter PM2.5 levels have exceeded the standard in 46 provinces, prompting health warnings and advisories for residents to limit outdoor activities.

PM2.5 concentrations surpassed Thailand’s safety standards in various regions, including Bangkok, Samut Prakan, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Nan, Mae Hong Son, Phayao, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Lopburi, Saraburi, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Phuket, Bueng Kan, Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Nakhon Phanom, Nong Bua Lamphu, and others.

Northern provinces, in particular, have shown levels ranging from 53.0 to 169.7 microgrammes per cubic metre, while the northeast region recorded values between 35.4 and 80.8 microgrammes per cubic metre.

Central and western regions also reported levels above the standard, measuring between 30.2 and 60.2 micrograms per cubic metre. In contrast, the eastern region maintained relatively good air quality, with measurements ranging from 16.3 to 32.1 micrograms per cubic metre.

Only one area in the southern region exceeded the standard, with a recorded PM2.5 concentration between 14.4 and 45.3 microgrammes per cubic metre.

Bangkok and its vicinity had six areas where air quality levels were beyond the acceptable limit, with PM2.5 values between 21.9 and 39.7 microgrammes per cubic metre.

A stark reminder of the severity of the situation came when Chiang Mai topped the world’s air pollution index, with a resident in Lampang measuring PM2.5 levels at a staggering 600 microgrammes per cubic metre, questioning the safety of the community’s health. Other affected provinces include Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Roi Et, Amnat Charoen, Chaiyaphum, Yasothon, Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Surin.

The health advisory issued recommends that the general public take precautions to protect their health, reduce the time spent on outdoor activities, or use personal protective equipment. Those with health concerns are urged to limit their exposure to outdoor activities or protect themselves accordingly.

If health symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical advice. Particularly in areas with significant health impacts (red zones), residents should avoid outdoor activities or use protection, consulting a doctor if they experience any health issues.

The website IQAir, which tracks global air pollution levels, reported that as of 10am on the same day, Chiang Mai had the second-worst air quality in the world, reported KhaoSod.