It's been a challenging week for Singapore as the haze situation worsened, with air quality falling into the unhealthy range for the first time since 2019. The culprits? Fires from neighbouring Indonesia. However, there's a silver lining to this smoky cloud: the National Environment Agency (NEA) forecasts a significant improvement in the coming days.
The Current Haze Situation
On Saturday, Singapore's air quality took a hit as winds carried smoke from forest fires in Indonesia across the border. The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) in central and eastern parts of Singapore fell into the unhealthy range. This is the first time such a deterioration has occurred since 2019.
A Positive Outlook
Despite the recent dip in air quality, the NEA announced on October 8th that the 24-hour PSI for Singapore is expected to be in the "Moderate" range. This forecast indicates a positive shift in the haze situation.
According to the NEA, dry conditions persist in the region, but the number of hotspots detected in Indonesia — primarily over the southern and central parts of Sumatra — on October 8th is lower than the day before. On October 7th, 188 hotspots were identified, compared to just 68 on October 8th.
Role of Weather Conditions
The weather also seems to be lending a helping hand. The prevailing winds are forecasted to blow mainly from the east tomorrow (October 9th), which reduces the likelihood of transboundary haze affecting Singapore.
Moreover, showers are expected over Singapore and the surrounding region, which could significantly improve the regional haze situation. This wetter condition should help keep the regional fire and haze situation subdued.
Looking Ahead
While the haze situation is expected to improve, it's crucial to remain prepared. Singapore reportedly has a sufficient supply of masks if the haze situation worsens. Meanwhile, an advisory has been issued for residents to stay updated on the air quality and take necessary precautions.
Haze Situation Update (11 October 2023)
There were thundery showers over many areas in Singapore in the late morning and early afternoon yesterday (11 October 2023). As of 6pm, the 1-hr PM2.5 concentration readings were 13-28 µg/m3, in Band I (Normal), and the 24-hr PSI was 56-81, in the Moderate range. Drier conditions were observed over several parts of Sumatra today.
66 hotspots were detected mostly over the southern and central parts of Sumatra, higher than the 15 hotspots detected yesterday. Over southern Sumatra, moderate smoke haze was observed from satellite imagery blowing towards the northwest.
While drier weather is forecast over southern and parts of central Sumatra tomorrow, showers over Singapore and its surrounding regions are expected to keep the likelihood of transboundary haze low. The prevailing winds are expected to blow mainly from the south or southwest. For the next 24 hours, the 24-hour PSI for Singapore is forecast to be in the Moderate range.
In conclusion, despite the recent haze situation in Singapore, upcoming weather conditions and reduced fire hotspots in Indonesia hint at an improvement in air quality. Let's hope for clearer skies ahead and remember to stay safe and informed!
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