Why is Singapore experiencing severe haze right now?
The haze is caused by illegal slash-and-burn farming and peatland fires in Indonesia, which are being worsened by a prolonged dry season and a strong El Nino [1]. Southeasterly winds are currently carrying this smoke into Singapore and Malaysia [2].
What happened
- 14 Oct
Indonesian police identify over 200 suspects and nine companies for land fire violations [1].
- 16 Oct
Minister Grace Fu warns that air quality could reach hazardous levels exceeding 300 PSI [1].
- 17 Oct, 11:00 UTC
West Singapore's 1-hour PM2.5 readings hit 158, placing the region in the high band [2].
- 17 Oct, 23:00 UTC
24-hour PSI in western Singapore reaches the 'very unhealthy' range, peaking at 212 [2].
What you need to know
Check 1-hour PM2.5 readings instead of 24-hour PSI to decide if a mask is needed for outdoor activities [2].
Vulnerable groups should avoid outdoors when hourly PM2.5 is between 151 and 250; all people should minimize outdoors if it exceeds 251 [2].
N95 masks or equivalents are recommended for those who must go outside during high haze levels [2].
Singapore citizens can access subsidized treatment for haze-related ailments at polyclinics [1].
It is not yet confirmed when the haze will fully clear, though smoke typically persists until the monsoon rains arrive in November or December [1].
Background
The current crisis is driven by a 'double whammy' of the annual dry season and a potentially record-breaking El Nino since 1950, which creates hotter and drier conditions [1].
Much of the smoke comes from drained peatlands in Indonesia. Because peat is organic and can smoulder underground for months, these fires are difficult to extinguish [1].
The haze has led to a 20% to 30% increase in clinic visits for respiratory issues and conjunctivitis, coinciding with the Influenza A season [1].
Questions people ask
Which events have been affected by the haze?
The FA Cup final and third-place play-off were cancelled, the Great Eastern Women's Run was cancelled, and The Purple Parade was moved to early 2027 [2].
Why is peatland fire worse than regular forest fire?
Peatlands store massive amounts of carbon and can burn underground for months, meaning smoke continues until the rainy season [1].
Where this came from
Found through Google Trends and drafted with AI from at least two cited sources. Published automatically after passing our automated checks for sources, wording and safety. It may not have been reviewed by a person yet. Report a correction.