Air quality in Singapore mostly unhealthy; PM2.5 elevated in four regions

Singapore's air quality was mostly unhealthy on Monday, October 19, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). The 24-hour Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) ranged from 92 in the north, considered moderate, to 139 in the west, deemed unhealthy. Hourly PM2.5 readings were elevated in the western, central, southern, and eastern regions. Throughout Sunday, Singapore's air quality remained in the unhealthy band across most areas.

The country's western region, the only outlier, experienced unhealthy conditions from 8 PM on Saturday and joined the other regions by 5 PM on Sunday. At 10 AM, the 24-hour PSI peaked at 230, marking a new high for this year's haze season. Forecasted showers and winds from the south-southeast or south were expected to limit smoke haze from Kalimantan to Singapore on Monday.

However, smoke haze from Sumatra might drift towards Singapore, while winds could shift to an east-southeasterly direction from Tuesday night, potentially bringing smoke from Kalimantan towards Singapore overnight.

The NEA advises the elderly, pregnant women, and children to minimize prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities when the 24-hour PSI is in the unhealthy range. Those with chronic diseases or lung or heart conditions should also avoid such activities during unhealthy air quality. For immediate outdoor activities, individuals should refer to the hourly PM2.5 readings and wear a well-fitting N95 mask if the 1-hour PM2.5 readings are in the high band.

Those who need to venture outdoors may also use an N95 mask for protection when PM2.5 readings reach the very high band of 251 and above. Healthy individuals should minimize all outdoor activities when PM2.5 readings are in the very high band. The Ministry of Health recommends consulting a doctor before using an N95 mask for those with severe heart or lung conditions or experiencing breathing difficulties while wearing one.

The public can refer to the HazeMaskGoWhere website for mask collection locations and live updates on availability.