Officials issue health warning for Indonesian haze [video]

PHUKET: Phuket officials issued a health warning today, after air pollution on the island maintained levels above the public safety standard for the last 24 hours.

“The average air pollution level for the last 24-hour period, 7am yesterday to 7am today, was 136 micrograms per cubic meter [PM],” confirmed Pornsri Suthanarak, director of the Regional Environmental Office.

The public safety level is set at a 24-hour PM10 average of a 120.

PM10 levels spiked beyond 170 yesterday afternoon (story here). The sudden increase was a concern for Rawai Mayor Aroon Solos, who handed out air pollution face masks to municipality employees, teachers and children. (story here)

“I suggest that people avoid outdoor activities and that those with respiratory problems, as well as children and the elderly, avoid spending an unnecessary amount of time outside,” Dr Pornsri said.

— Chutharat Plerin