Singapore haze tips air quality into unhealthy range for first time since 2023

Singapore’s air quality dipped into the unhealthy range for the first time since October 2023 due to haze originating from forest and land fires across the region, as reported by The Straits Times. The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) in central Singapore reached 101 at 7am, indicating that the public should limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities.

PSI levels had been gradually climbing towards the unhealthy threshold throughout the early hours of the day, hitting 99 by 6am. This deterioration was attributed to weeks of forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, Indonesia, where dry conditions have intensified hot spots and smoke haze. The Meteorological Service had previously warned that Singapore could experience hazy conditions for the next two weeks due to the persisting dry weather in the surrounding region.

Smoke haze was observed over southern and central Sumatra and parts of Kalimantan on most days since late August. Malaysia has already faced significant impacts from the haze, with unhealthy air quality recorded in several states. In Sarawak, the city of Serian recorded an Air Pollutant Index reading of 408, placing it in the very hazardous category.

Singapore’s authorities have ramped up public health preparations, including intensified awareness campaigns, guidance for vulnerable groups, and haze advisories for workplaces. The NEA utilizes both the 24-hour PSI and one-hour PM2.5 readings to evaluate air quality during haze episodes, with PM2.5 measuring fine particles that can deeply penetrate the lungs and bloodstream.

Air quality is categorized as good (0-50), moderate (51-100), and unhealthy (101-200) based on the PSI.