Haze watch Oct 14: PM2.5 hits 'very high' band reading of 284 in western Singapore

Air quality in Singapore has been worsening through Wednesday (Oct 14) afternoon, with one-hour PM2.5 hitting 284 in the western region at 2pm.

This is the highest concentration reading recorded this year.

Elsewhere, concentration readings in central (206) Singapore also crossed 200, but remains in the high band.

The next highest concentration readings were recorded in eastern (195) and southern (159) Singapore.

When PM2.5 readings are in the “very high” band, healthy persons should minimise all outdoor activities for the next hour.

Those who are vulnerable or have lung and heart ailments are advised to avoid all outdoor activity for the next hour.

Meanwhile, 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) remained in the unhealthy range, with the highest reading of 153 recorded in the western region.

Weather, PSI forecast

According to the National Environment Agency's weather microsite, thundery showers are forecast mainly over northern, western and central Singapore in the afternoon.

But the agency also pointed out in its daily haze situation update on Tuesday evening that with dry conditions expected to persist over parts of southern Sumatra and Kalimantan, coupled with the prevailing winds, smoke haze may still drift towards Singapore.

The city state's 24-hour PSI forecast till this evening is expected to remain in the unhealthy range.

Members of the public should check the latest PM2.5 readings before participating in outdoor activities.

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editor@asiaone.com