BANGKOK; Bangkok authorities issued an orange-level pollution alert on Saturday morning (October 24) after PM2.5 particulate matter exceeded the safety threshold of 37.5 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³) in three districts.
Despite scattered rainfall covering 30 per cent of the metropolitan area, the precipitation failed to effectively disperse the smog.
According to Krungthep Turakij reporter Panyalak Sriburin, the latest spike has raised renewed concerns among urban residents as pollution levels exceed safety limits.
Data compiled by the Bangkok Air Quality Information Center between 5am and 7am recorded readings ranging from 18.6 to 45.1 µg/m³, with a city-wide average of 28.9 µg/m³. However, readings at 7am showed an alarming increase compared with the same period on Friday.
Air quality breached the regulatory threshold of 37.5 µg/m³, entering the orange zone, which indicates pollution levels that may begin to affect public health, in three districts.
Bang Khun Thian District, measured at the district office on Rama II Road, recorded 43.4 µg/m³. Phasi Charoen District, near Siam University on Phetkasem Road, recorded 38.6 µg/m³, while Bueng Kum District, measured within the district office premises, recorded 37.6 µg/m³.
Public health officials have urged residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, older people and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, to take immediate precautions.
The general public is advised to wear face masks designed to protect against PM2.5 particles when outdoors and to limit prolonged or strenuous physical activity in open areas.
Vulnerable groups have been strongly advised to avoid outdoor activities and seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as coughing, breathing difficulties or eye irritation.
Residents can monitor real-time air quality readings through the AirBKK mobile application, the official website at www.airbkk.com, or the Bangkok Air Quality Information Center's social media channels.
Environmental pollution sources can also be reported directly to municipal authorities through the Traffy Fondue platform.
According to the Thai Meteorological Department's daily forecast for October 24, Bangkok and its surrounding areas were expected to experience temperatures ranging from 25°C to 27°C at the lowest and 33°C to 35°C at the highest, with easterly winds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour and a 30 per cent chance of thundershowers.
During the 24-hour period leading up to 7am, moderate to heavy rainfall was recorded across various parts of the capital.
The highest cumulative rainfall was recorded at Khlong Ratchamontri Pumping Station in Bang Khun Thian District, at 43.0mm. The Bang Na-Srinakarin Road Canal in Bang Na District recorded 24.0mm, while the Khlong Khun Si-Mahasawat Canal Sluice Gate in Thawi Watthana District recorded 23.5mm. Benchasiri Park in Khlong Toei District recorded 20.0mm, while the Phaya Thai District Office recorded 19.5mm.
Municipal authorities reported that despite the downpours, no major stagnant water or drainage bottlenecks were identified along primary thoroughfares.
However, commuters were advised to plan their journeys carefully and carry rain gear. - The Nation/ANN
