Image from The Nation Thailand/ANN
BANGKOK (The Nation Thailand/ANN): The air quality in most areas of Bangkok metropolitan was at the “orange” level, or starting to affect health, on Sunday, the Air Quality Information Centre of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) said with 48 districts in the orange zone.
The BMA also advised all that at the orange air quality level, air pollution begins to affect health.
"The general public should wear a PM2.5 protective mask when going outdoors, limit the duration of strenuous outdoor activities or exercise, and monitor for symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, or eye irritation," said the BMA statement.
"For at-risk groups, wearing a PM2.5 protective mask is essential when outside. Strenuous outdoor activities should be avoided, and individuals should follow medical advice. If any abnormal symptoms occur, seeking medical attention immediately is recommended."
The centre also reported the average PM2.5 levels throughout the city on Saturday at 41.2 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³), slightly above 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 48.8 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.
Five districts that reported the highest levels of PM2.5 are Beung Kum (58.3 µg/m³), Nong Jok (58 µg/m³), Bang Na (52.4 µg/m³), Lat Krabang (52.2 µg/m³), and Min Buri (50.2 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 having 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 Thailand/ANN
