PM2.5 Warning: Burning Ban Issued

BANGKOK, Jan 7 (TNA) - Thailand's Pollution Control Department issued a warning for elevated PM2.5 pollution levels during January 7-10, with 15 provinces urged to suspend burning activities as stagnant air conditions trap pollutants.

The Department of Pollution Control forecasts worsening air quality in Bangkok and surrounding areas due to cold air masses moving in from the northeast causing air stagnation and limiting pollutant dispersion.

Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Chalermchai Sri-on has emphasized comprehensive prevention measures across urban, agricultural and forest areas to protect public health, particularly vulnerable groups including patients, children, elderly, and pregnant women.

As of 7:00 AM on January 7, PM2.5 readings exceeded standards in most areas of Thailand. The Bangkok Metropolitan Region recorded levels between 29.1 and 76.5 μg/m³. In the Northern Region, readings ranged from 12.9 to 67.0 μg/m³. The Northeastern Region experienced levels between 37.2 and 75.2 μg/m³, while the Central and Western Regions saw readings between 35.2 and 74.4 μg/m³.

Satellite data from GISTDA on January 5 detected 490 hotspots nationwide, including 171 in rice fields, 110 in forest areas, 73 in other agricultural lands, 44 in sugarcane fields, 20 in corn fields, and 72 in other areas. 

The Center for Air Pollution Mitigation is coordinating with local authorities to strictly control burning activities in affected areas. -819 (TNA)