BANGKOK: The air quality in most areas of Bangkok metropolitan was at a moderate level on Saturday (Feb 8) morning, but the PM2.5 levels in 22 districts exceeded the safety standard, the Air Quality Information Centre of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) said.
The centre reported the average PM2.5 levels throughout the city on Saturday at 37.4 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³), slightly under the country’s standard of 37.5 µg/m³ over a three-hour average (5am to 7am).
Yesterday’s reading at the same time was at 35.2 µg/m³.
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing health risks such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Major sources of PM2.5 include traffic emissions, factories, forest fires and burning of harvest leftovers.
The five districts that reported the highest levels of PM2.5 are Lat Krabang (52.5 µg/m³), Nong Jok (51.2 µg/m³), Bang Na (48.6 µg/m³), Khlong Sam Wa (48.6 µg/m³), and Beung Kum (48.2 µg/m³).
The centre advised Bangkokians to wear facemasks, avoid spending time outdoors and work from home if possible.
Those who experience symptoms such as coughing, eye irritation or have trouble breathing should see a physician, the centre added.
Air quality can be checked daily on the AirBKK application, www.airbkk.com, Line Alert, as well as the Facebook page of the BMA’s Environment Department. - The Nation/ANN
