Risk of haze in Singapore if dry conditions, regional hot spots continue in the coming week: NEA

SINGAPORE – Recent dry conditions have resulted in hot spots and smoke plumes over parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan, and smoke haze could be transported towards Singapore, said the National Environment Agency (NEA).

The dry conditions are expected to continue in the coming week, which could increase the risk of haze if the fires persist, the agency said in a statement on Aug 9.

On Aug 9 at 1pm, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) in the central range of Singapore was at 81, falling within the moderate range, NEA said.

It added that the 28 public agencies that make up the Government’s Haze Task Force (HTF) are ready to roll out their respective haze action plans if the air quality deteriorates into the unhealthy range, when the 24-hour PSI exceeds 100.

NEA said it will continue to closely monitor the haze situation and provide further updates if the situation changes.

To minimise the risk of the impact of haze, the public can reduce outdoor activities and physical exertion, and drink water to stay hydrated, NEA added.

If the 24-hour PSI enters the unhealthy range, NEA will issue daily haze advisories.