Singapore Braces for Potential Haze as Regional Hotspots Increase

The National Environment Agency (NEA) has warned that dry conditions are expected to continue next week, increasing the risk of haze in Singapore if regional fires persist. As of 1 p.m. on August 9, the 24 hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached 81 in central Singapore, which falls within the moderate range. Hotspots and smoke plumes have been observed over parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan, and prevailing southeasterly winds could transport smoke toward Singapore, particularly from southern Sumatra.

Singapore's inter agency Haze Task Force, consisting of 28 public agencies, is prepared to implement action plans if the 24 hour PSI exceeds 100 and enters the unhealthy range. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu stated that the government is ready to activate response plans, noting that national mask stockpiles are sufficient and air purifiers are available in schools, preschools, and care facilities.

Public health advice includes monitoring one hour PM2.5 concentrations to plan outdoor activities, as these readings can fluctuate throughout the day. The NEA recommends reducing physical exertion and staying hydrated to minimize the impact of haze. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and pregnant women, as well as those with chronic heart or lung conditions, are advised to seek medical attention promptly if they feel unwell.

These warnings follow an alert from the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC), which raised the alert for the southern ASEAN region to Level 2. This level indicates an increasing risk of transboundary haze with moderate to dense smoke observed over two or more consecutive days.