
Brace yourselves for a slightly hazier Singapore
No thanks to rising number of hotspots.
According to NEA, the National Environment Agency (NEA) reported that the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings have been in the ‘Moderate’ range since 9pm on Friday, 7 March 2014.
The haze may be attributed to hotspots to the north of Singapore, blown in by the prevailing northeasterly winds. A total of 110 hotspots were detected in Peninsular Malaysia and 210 hotspots in Sumatra.
For the next few days, the weather is expected to be fair and warm. Slightly hazy conditions can also be expected in the late afternoon and night if hotspots in the surrounding region persist. NEA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
The health impact of haze is dependent on one’s health status, the PSI level, and the length and intensity of outdoor activity.
Reducing outdoor activities and physical exertion can help limit the ill effects from haze exposure. Persons who are not feeling well, especially the elderly, pregnant women and children, and those with chronic heart or lung conditions, should seek medical attention. At the current PSI and PM2.5 levels, most people can continue with normal activities.