Singapore, 9 September 2019 – There have been occasional slightly hazy conditions over some parts of Singapore in the afternoon today. This was likely due to some haze drifting in from escalating hotspot activities in Sumatra. As at6pm, the 24-hr PSI was 75 - 85, in the Moderate range, and the 1-hr PM_2.5 concentration readings were 41 - 59µg/m³, in Band I (Normal) and the lower-end of Band II (Elevated). For the rest of the day, the prevailing winds are expected to blow mainly from the southeast or south.

2        The weather has remained dry over Sumatra today. A total of 380 hotspots were detected mostly in central and southern Sumatra. There were persistent hotspots with moderate to dense smoke haze in Riau and Jambi provinces, and some of the haze has spread across the Strait of Malacca to western parts of Peninsular Malaysia. Hotspots with smoke haze were also detected in South Sumatra and Lampung.

3         For the next few days, dry weather is expected to persist in Sumatra. The prevailing winds are forecast to continue blowing from the southeast or south. Singapore could experience slightly hazy conditions if the hotspot situation in Sumatra persists. For the next 24 hours, the 1-hr PM_2.5 concentration readings are expected to range between Band I (Normal) and Band II (Elevated). The 24-hr PSI is forecast to be in the Moderate range.

4          NEA is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates when necessary.

5          The health impact of haze is dependent on one’s health status, the PSI level, and the length and intensity of outdoor activity. Reducing outdoor activities and physical exertion can help limit the ill effects from haze exposure. Given the air quality forecast for the next 24 hours, everyone can continue with normal activities. Persons who are not feeling well, especially the elderly and children, and those with chronic heart or lung conditions, should seek medical attention.

6          Air quality indicators and health advisories during periods of transboundary haze refer primarily to the 24-hour PSI. There are no accompanying health advisories for any other air quality indicators. In addition, the main air pollutant during the haze season is PM_2.5. Hence, the 1-hour PM_2.5 concentration readings are a good indicator of the current air quality. Use this for immediate activities like going for a jog.

7          For updates, visit our NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), MSS website (www.weather.gov.sg), the haze microsite (www.haze.gov.sg), mobile apps (myEnv and Weather@SG) or follow us on NEA Facebook (www.facebook.com/NEASingapore) and NEA Twitter (@NEAsg).

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