PSI could go over 300 before haze improves once inter-monsoon period starts: Grace Fu
She stressed that there are sufficient masks in warehouses and the Government’s stockpile.
Singapore's haze could reach hazardous levels, with PSI readings possibly exceeding 300, in the days ahead due to unfavorable weather conditions, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu stated on October 16. The inter-monsoon period, expected to commence within three to four weeks, could alleviate air quality, she told reporters at a joint press conference alongside Education Minister Desmond Lee and Acting Manpower Minister Jasmin Lau.
When the north-east monsoon brings wind around early December, the haze originating from Sumatra and Kalimantan will be carried in a direction away from Singapore, Fu said. Singapore has been grappling with its longest stretch of subpar air quality since 2015, with October 16 marking the 12th consecutive day of unhealthy PSI readings.
The PSI is measured across 24 hours and categorizes air quality into five bands, ranging from good (0-50) to hazardous (300). Fu emphasized that the PSI is a valuable tool for assessing sustained exposure, urging the public to consider it in conjunction with the hourly PM2.5 readings, which offer insights into current air quality.
A PM2.5 reading of 0-55 is typical, 56-150 indicates elevated fine particles, 151-250 is classified as high, and scores above 251 are categorized as very high. Fu noted that a high 24-hour PSI reading paired with a low PM2.5 reading signifies improved conditions, although prolonged exposure remains a concern, while a low 24-hour PSI reading accompanied by a high PM2.5 measurement suggests recent deterioration, despite no increase in the average.
She advised the public to refer to the 24-hour PSI reading for planning activities the following day and recommended using hourly PM2.5 readings for decisions on the specific day, taking into account factors such as location, type of activity, and individual health and physical condition. Fu stressed the importance of taking necessary precautions, particularly for the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic health issues, highlighting that community clubs across Singapore began distributing N95 masks to vulnerable individuals on October 14.
Around 10% of eligible Singaporeans have collected them thus far, and mask vending machines are being progressively deployed across public transport hubs and social service offices, with availability at 37 locations expected by the end of October 16. Although masks may be temporarily unavailable at some retail stores due to heightened demand, Fu assured that there is sufficient supply in retailers' warehouses and the government's stockpile. If the haze situation warrants it, another round of mask distribution will be undertaken.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
