Singapore's Air Quality: Haze Persists Despite Slight Improvement

SINGAPORE – Air quality across Singapore has shown a slight improvement but remains predominantly in the unhealthy range, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). As of 6 am on September 30, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings were reported at 121 in the central region, 119 in the east, 121 in the west, and 112 in the south. The northern part of the island recorded a lower PSI of 97, indicating a shift to moderate air quality.

This recent development follows a peak PSI of 167 at 12 pm in the central region on September 29, marking the first time in two weeks that the PSI had breached the unhealthy band. The NEA had previously warned that the air quality was expected to fluctuate between high moderate and mid-unhealthy levels due to persistent dry conditions in southern Sumatra and parts of Kalimantan, Indonesia.

Despite forecasts of showers over Singapore on September 30, the NEA cautioned that smoke haze could still affect the island, driven by prevailing winds from the east or southeast. The agency has advised healthy individuals to limit prolonged outdoor activities during periods of unhealthy air quality, while vulnerable groups—including the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with chronic lung or heart conditions—are urged to avoid such activities altogether.

Air quality is classified as unhealthy when the 24-hour PSI ranges between 101 and 200, and an hourly PM2.5 reading between 56 and 150 indicates an elevated concentration of fine particulate matter. The NEA's daily haze advisory indicated that while air quality had improved slightly, it remains a concern for public health.

Historically, Singapore has faced challenges with haze, particularly during the dry season when agricultural burning in neighboring countries contributes to air pollution. The PSI first returned to unhealthy levels on September 4, after a period of relatively clearer air. The NEA's ongoing monitoring and advisories play a crucial role in informing the public about air quality and health precautions.