Singapore shrouded in haze; PSI readings in the unhealthy range across the island
However, PM2.5 levels are in the normal band in the northern, southern and eastern regions.
Singapore faced unhealthy air quality on Oct 8 as the 24-hour PSI hovered between 113 and 161, according to the National Environment Agency. The PSI measures air quality using six key pollutants and indicates when outdoor activities should be adjusted for health safety. While fine particle levels, measured in PM2.5, were elevated in the west and central regions, they remained within normal limits in other parts of the island.
The NEA forecasted a worsening haze situation, with the PSI expected to remain in the unhealthy range. The forecast proved accurate, marking the first time since the agency began issuing daily haze advisories at the end of September that the PSI consistently fell in the unhealthy band of 101-200. Smoke plumes from southern Sumatra and Kalimantan, Indonesia, contributed to the haze, with prevailing winds favoring their drift towards Singapore.
The PSI crossed the unhealthy threshold four weeks ago, with the highest reading of 167 recorded on Sept 29. This marks the first time since October 2023 that Singapore's PSI reached unhealthy levels due to haze, following warnings of elevated haze risk between June and October due to warmer and drier conditions caused by El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole.
Experts predict the haze may persist for a longer period in 2026 due to the strong "Godzilla" El Nino event, which could lead to reduced rainfall and higher temperatures.
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