Thailand’s far south covered by smog from Indonesia

Smog from Indonesia has been covering some southern provinces of Thailand for several days, exposing people to health risks.

The media broadcast images of the smog-ridden city of Hat Yai, Songkhla province. This thick smoke is a consequence of ongoing agricultural land burns and forest fires in Indonesia, while the southwest wind amplifies this situation.

Residents of Hat Yai have been alerted about a high level of fine particulate matter PM 2.5 exceeding the tolerance threshold of 50 micrograms per cubic metre since three days.

The authorities have also warned of worsening air quality in the coming days, as fires still seem untamable.

Due to its geographical location and poor air circulation, Hat Yai remains more exposed to smog than other regions.

Children, elderly people, pregnant women and residents with respiratory problems were advised to avoid outdoor exposures.

This cross-border pollution fog has also affected other Thai provinces, including Trang and Satun, with some urban areas covered with smog.

Meanwhile, the Indonesian authorities have reported an increase in the number of fire sources on the island of Sumatra.