Bangkok: The Pollution Control Department confirms that dust levels are starting to decrease today, although the sky is hazy due to high humidity.
According to Thai News Agency, the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) explained that this morning's fog mixed with PM2.5 dust resulted in poor visibility. They noted that dust levels are beginning to decrease but remain above the standard in several provinces and requested cooperation in reducing all types of burning.
The Air Pollution Control Communication Center (APCC) of the Pollution Control Department reported on the PM2.5 situation in Bangkok and surrounding areas. This morning, measurements ranged from 37.3 to 81.2 micrograms per cubic meter, showing a decrease from the same time yesterday. However, many areas still exceed the standard levels. Despite the decrease in PM2.5 levels, the sky appeared more hazy due to very high humidity, with Bangkok experiencing an average relative humidity of up to 88%. This caused near-surface fog that mixed with the remaining particulate matter, reducing visibility and making the atmosphere appear cloudier.
The National Energy Policy Office (NEPO) stated that although air pollution levels are decreasing in many areas, PM2.5 levels still exceed the standard in several provinces, particularly in Bangkok and its surrounding areas, as well as in lower Northern Thailand, upper Central Thailand, Northeastern Thailand, and Eastern Thailand. Provinces affected include Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, among others.
Winds blowing from the south (Gulf of Thailand) northward resulted in several provinces being located downwind, leading to increased open burning and dust accumulation at levels that "affect health" (red zone). An assessment of PM2.5 trends over the next 7 days indicates increasing cases in various regions, except for Southern Thailand where air quality remains consistently good.
The Department of Environmental Quality Promotion (DEQP) advises the public to monitor their health, reduce outdoor time, or wear dust masks, and requests cooperation in refraining from open burning. Real-time air pollution updates are available on the Air4Thai website and applications.