Singapore braces for severe transboundary haze ahead of F1 Grand Prix weekend

Singapore anticipates a severe transboundary haze episode preceding the F1 Grand Prix weekend, reminiscent of the 2019 crisis that almost derailed the event. Seven years on, the risk is deemed more concerning due to intensifying fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, combined with persistent dry weather and the influence of El Nino. In September 2019, forest fires produced a thick, foul-smelling smog over the race track, leading to the deployment of first aiders and the distribution of N95 masks to a disoriented crowd of 268,000 attendees.

Today, authorities caution that air quality could deteriorate to "unhealthy" levels, despite the current PSI rating in the moderate range of 51 to 100. Singapore GP organizers are on high alert, with the event's contingency plan already in place, developed in consultation with stakeholders and government bodies. In the event that air quality poses visibility, public health, or operational issues, the organizers pledge to collaborate closely with relevant agencies and make collective decisions accordingly.

The Haze Task Force, a 28-member interagency body chaired by the National Environment Agency, has established tiered responses based on 24-hour PSI and hourly PM2.5 readings. This ensures constant communication of haze developments and guarantees medical assistance and N95 masks are readily available on-site during the Grand Prix. However, not all major outdoor operators are proceeding as planned, with some considering cancellations or postponements in response to the escalating risk.

Meanwhile, Sentosa Development Corporation is advising partners to modify event formats and visitor advisories based on official guidance. HeritageSG, the organizers of the Singapore Night Festival (Aug 21 to Sep 5), is closely monitoring air quality and is prepared to relocate or cancel programs to ensure public safety should the situation worsen.