Singapore woke up to hazy conditions on the morning of March 26, prompting concerns among residents. According to the National Environment Agency (NEA), the haze was primarily due to the accumulation of particulate matter under light wind conditions. Fortunately, the situation is expected to improve later in the day as wind strength increases.
What is Causing the Haze in Singapore?
The NEA confirmed that the current haze is largely due to particulate matter suspended in the air. Singapore is currently in its northeast monsoon season, with winds typically blowing from the northwest or northeast. However, the lack of strong winds this morning caused pollutants to accumulate, reducing visibility and affecting air quality.
Although regional fires and transboundary haze have been concerns in the past, NEA noted that there is no clear satellite evidence of smoke plumes drifting into Singapore from neighboring countries. This suggests that local conditions are the primary cause of the haze, rather than external sources.
PSI and PM2.5 Readings: What You Need to Know
As of 2 PM on March 26, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) in Singapore ranged between 63 and 77, with the highest reading recorded in the central region. This falls within the moderate range, meaning most people can continue with their daily activities without major health concerns.
On the other hand, PM2.5 levels—the fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs—remain at normal levels. PM2.5 is typically the dominant pollutant during transboundary haze episodes, but its stable readings further support NEA’s assessment that this haze event is not primarily due to regional fires.
Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre’s Warning on Regional Haze
The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) recently issued a high-risk warning for transboundary haze in the region. Their March 17 report highlighted prolonged dry weather and significant hotspot activities in the Mekong sub-region, which includes Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos.
Recent satellite data recorded over 2,000 hotspots in the region on March 15 and 16. However, despite this escalation, NEA emphasized that no clear smoke plumes from these regions have been detected heading towards Singapore.
How Long Will the Haze Last?
According to NEA, the haze is expected to clear as winds strengthen throughout the afternoon. Singapore’s monsoon season typically brings shifting wind patterns, which can help disperse pollutants and improve air quality. Residents can expect better visibility and fresher air in the coming hours.
Weather forecasts indicate that dry conditions will persist in the region, but isolated showers could help mitigate air pollution in the coming days. NEA continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates if necessary.
What Should Singapore Residents Do?
Given the current moderate PSI levels, daily activities can continue as usual. However, individuals who are more sensitive to air quality changes, such as the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions, should take precautions. If the haze worsens, reducing prolonged outdoor activities and using air purifiers indoors may be beneficial.
Cyclist Michael Goh, a 77-year-old retiree, shared that he cut short his usual ride due to the haze. “I cycle daily, but I felt a bit uncomfortable breathing, so I decided to turn back. It’s frustrating because I usually enjoy the clear view from my flat, but now it’s obscured.”
Similarly, Toa Payoh resident Mr. Chong noticed the haze early in the morning. “At first, I thought my glasses were foggy, but then I saw others talking about it online. If the haze gets worse, I’ll stay indoors and turn on the air conditioner.”
Conclusion: Staying Informed and Prepared
Hazy conditions in Singapore are not uncommon, but understanding their causes can help residents take necessary precautions. While today’s haze was primarily due to local particulate matter accumulation, the situation is expected to improve as wind conditions change.
NEA and ASMC continue to monitor regional developments and will issue updates if transboundary haze becomes a concern. In the meantime, Singaporeans can check real-time PSI readings and air quality updates via NEA’s website or mobile app to stay informed.
