Air quality in central Singapore dropped back into the unhealthy range according to official readings from the National Environment Agency (NEA), marking a return of regional smoke hazards that first disrupted the island earlier in the month. The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index reached 102 in the central region, driven by moderate to dense smoke plumes drifting from fires in Kalimantan and southern Sumatra.
Current PSI Readings Across Singapore Regions
Official monitoring data from the National Environment Agency shows varying pollutant levels across different parts of the island. As of midday, the 24-hour PSI registered at 91 in both the east and west zones. Meanwhile, the southern region recorded a reading of 82, and the northern region registered 79.
These figures follow a brief period of relief. PSI readings across the island had fallen back into the moderate spectrum and remained there since September 11, according to the National Environment Agency. That moderate stretch followed a spike on September 4, when central Singapore first crossed into the unhealthy threshold at 101. Prior to September, the island had not experienced unhealthy PSI levels due to haze since October 2023.
Meteorological Drivers and Regional Smoke Sources
The return of poor air quality stems from persistent dry weather and active burning across neighboring territories.
Prevailing winds blowing from the south-east or south continue to channel these emissions toward the island. While showers are forecast over northern Sumatra and north-western Borneo in the coming days, dry weather conditions are expected to persist over Kalimantan and central and southern Sumatra, keeping the regional fire risk active.
Did you know? Air quality is categorized as moderate when the PSI sits between 51 and 100, while values from 0 to 50 are considered good. The unhealthy range spans from 101 to 200, prompting public health advisories to limit prolonged outdoor exertion.
National Environment Agency Health Advisories
With air quality hovering near the threshold, official forecasts indicate conditions for the next 24 hours will remain in the moderate to the lower end of the unhealthy range. The National Environment Agency advised the public to cut down on outdoor activities while air quality remains in the unhealthy bracket of 101 to 200.
Authorities previously warned of an elevated risk of haze between June and October. This seasonal vulnerability is linked to warmer and drier conditions brought on by the combined influence of both El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current 24-hour PSI in central Singapore?
The 24-hour PSI in central Singapore reached 102, placing it in the unhealthy range according to National Environment Agency data.
What is causing the current haze in Singapore?
According to the National Environment Agency, the haze is caused by smoke plumes from persistent fires in Kalimantan and southern Sumatra, carried to the island by prevailing south-easterly or southern winds.
When did the haze last reach unhealthy levels before this month?
Prior to September, Singapore last experienced unhealthy PSI levels due to haze in October 2023.
How does the NEA classify PSI readings?
PSI readings from 0 to 50 are good, 51 to 100 are moderate, and 101 to 200 are unhealthy, during which authorities advise cutting down on outdoor activities.
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