Thailand: Air pollution to remain at hazardous level in Bangkok Jan. 14-15

Event

According to the Pollution Control Department (PCD), the level of hazardous dust particles (fine particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres or PM2.5) will remain high in the greater Bangkok area on Monday, January 14, and Tuesday, January 15. Similar high air pollution levels were also reported in tambon Nakhon Phathom of the Muang district in the Nakhon Pathom province and in tambon Bang Kruai in the Bang Kruai district of the Nonthaburi province. According to the PCD, the persisting air pollution is due to the combustion exhaust on Bangkok's traffic-choked roads, to the fields burning by farmers outside the city, and pollutants from factories. As of Januray 14, Air Visual, an independent online air quality index (AQI) monitor, pegged Bangkok at "unhealthy" levels reaching 156 AQI.

Context

According to environment group Greenpeace, Bangkok is currently the tenth most polluted capital city in the world. Traffic congestion, railway and condominium construction, road works, as well as dry season weather are generally responsible for the worsening air quality in the Thai capital. Exposure to high levels of PM2.5 can lead to various health issues, such as eye and skin irritation and headaches, and can aggravate cardiac and respiratory conditions. Health authorities are urging the population to regularly check air pollution levels via the Pollution Control Department (PCD) website: www.air4thai.pcd.go.th and the LINE mobile application: air4thai.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, limit outdoor activities until the situation normalize or wear N95 rated masks as a protection. Children and those with chronic respiratory illnesses should exercise increased caution. Individuals are advised to seek medical attention if experiencing breathing difficulties or other health concerns.