Chiang Mai is facing a serious haze problem as PM2.5 levels spike across the province. Officials also found 24 wildfire hotspots, so disaster teams sent a KA-32 helicopter to fly water-drop missions throughout the day. Doctors are also urging at-risk groups to watch their health closely and avoid outdoor activity.
On March 4, 2026, reports said Chiang Mai’s air quality moved into a critical stage. Thick smoke covered much of the city. The highest hourly PM2.5 reading reached 215 micrograms per cubic meter in Hang Dong Subdistrict, Hot District. Meanwhile, many areas in the city and nearby districts recorded readings above 100 micrograms per cubic meter.
This surge comes from smoke and dust carried by shifting winds. The haze is linked to forest fires in the southern districts of Chiang Mai. At the same time, smoke drifting in from the northern border areas has added to the problem.
Wildfire activity also remains a concern. The Chiang Mai center responsible for wildfire, haze, and fine dust response reported 24 hotspots today, with the highest number found in Doi Tao District.
In response, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation deployed a KA-32 helicopter to drop water in multiple trips. The goal is to control the flames quickly and stop fire lines from spreading.
Dr. Waranyu Jamnongprasatporn, Chiang Mai’s provincial public health chief, warned that people who are sensitive to PM2.5 need extra caution when pollution exceeds safety limits.
This includes older adults, children, pregnant women, and anyone with chronic illnesses. Those conditions include emphysema, asthma, and heart disease. He advised people in these groups to stop or reduce outdoor activities.
If they must go outside, they should wear a dust-protection mask the whole time. He also urged patients with underlying conditions to keep necessary medicines and equipment ready. If unusual symptoms appear, they should see a doctor right away.
For the general public, health officials also recommend limiting time outdoors and paying attention to warning signs.
Symptoms to watch include frequent coughing, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, trouble breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, chest pain, heart palpitations, nausea, unusual fatigue, or dizziness. If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical care as soon as possible.
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