The Centre for Air Pollution Mitigation (CAPM) of Thailand reported that PM2.5 levels in 28 provinces, predominantly in the North and Northeast, surpassed Thailand’s safety standard on Thursday.
These fine particulate matters, with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less, can deeply penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, leading to serious health risks, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, according to The Nation.
Traffic emissions, industrial activities, forest fires, and the burning of agricultural waste are common sources of PM2.5.
The provinces where PM2.5 levels exceeded the country's standard of 37.5 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³) are Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Nan, Mae Hong Son, Phayao, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Bueng Kan, Nong Khai, Loei, Udon Thani, Nakhon Phanom, Nong Bua Lamphu, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Roi Et, Amnat Charoen, Yasothon, and Ubon Ratchathani.
The air quality in various regions was reported as follows: In the North, PM2.5 levels ranged from 31.7 to 83.8 µg/m³, mostly exceeding the safety standard, in the Northeast, levels ranged from 22.8 to 78.8 µg/m³, also mostly exceeding the standard, the Central region recorded levels between 11.9 and 30.5 µg/m³, classified as good, the East had good air quality with PM2.5 levels ranging from 7.0 to 23.1 µg/m³, the South recorded excellent air quality, with PM2.5 levels between 10.8 and 21.7 µg/m³. and the Bangkok Metropolitan Area also had good air quality, with levels ranging from 9.1 to 26.1 µg/m³.
It is recommended that residents in high-pollution areas wear face masks, reduce outdoor activities, and work from home if feasible.
Individuals experiencing symptoms like coughing, eye irritation, or difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.
