North Thailand suffers from high PM2.5 levels

(CTN News) – Northeastern Thailand is experiencing high levels of PM2.5, harming public health, whereas Bangkok has a mostly clear sky.

Northeastern Thailand is currently shrouded in a haze of fine particulate matter, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safety guidelines in 40 provinces. This has jeopardised the health of millions, particularly the respiratory system.

Data from this morning showed that Bangkok, in stark contrast, had good to very good air quality in numerous districts.

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and its Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), in collaboration with the National Research Council of Thailand, the Pollution Control Department, Kasetsart University, and Chiang Mai University, are closely monitoring the situation.

This professional team has been using satellite data, accessed through the Dust Check app, to provide real-time updates on the PM2.5 situation.

Bangkok Enjoys Clear Skies as PM2.5 Levels Remain Low

The top five provinces in the northeast with critical PM2.5 values are Amnat Charoen (93.9 micrograms per cubic metre), Mukdahan (88.8), Nakhon Phanom (88.4), Yasothon (83.2), and Nong Khai (82).

Sukhothai also measured a high amount of 75.5 micrograms per cubic metre. Meanwhile, another 34 provinces are suffering air quality issues that may impact their health.

In Bangkok, Bang Kho Laem, Rat Burana, Watthana, Thon Buri, Khlong San, Yan Nawa, Samphanthawong, Phasi Charoen, Din Daeng, Lat Phrao, and Chom Thong were fortunate to have PM2.5 readings in the good to very good range in the mornings.

However, the Dust Check app predicts that numerous places will see moderate air quality, as indicated by an orange grade, over the following three hours. This forecast is mainly applicable to the country’s northern and northeastern areas.

The Dust Check application uses satellite technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to monitor hourly PM2.5 levels across Thailand.

Additional data sources include ground measurements from the Pollution Control Department, meteorological data from Thailand, and hotspot detection.

The app offers this data in an easy-to-understand format, with numerical figures and a colour-coded scheme to help users grasp the air quality issue.

Citizens are advised by public health authorities to wear masks at all times when outdoors to reduce the potential negative health impacts, particularly respiratory infections.

According to KhaoSod, the Dust Check programme provides updated hourly PM25 information, allowing homeowners to stay informed and take required precautions.