Big, bad haze for 3 more days

Big, bad haze for 3 more days

THE haze is here to stay at least for the next three days said the National Environment Agency (NEA) at a media briefing held yesterday to shed more light on the haze situation here.

However, Singaporeans need not be unduly alarmed as the haze, caused by fires in the Sumatran region of Indonesia, is unlikely to reach hazardous levels here.

Yesterday, the Pollutants Standards Index (PSI) level hit a high of 80, which is in the moderate region. The PSI levels will depend on the intensity of the fires, the wind direction and whether there is rain.

Mr Joseph Hui, Director-General of the Environmental Protection Division of the NEA, said: "If the wind blows in the West-North-West direction and the fires remain constant, it is likely that the PSI levels will increase."

He added that the western part of Singapore will be the most affected.

In response to my paper queries, a Ministry of Health spokesman said that cases of asthma, bronchitis and allergic conjunctivitis can be expected to increase due to the presence of irritants in the air. The spokesman said: "People are advised to avoid vigorous outdoor activities if the PSI is beyond 100 as the air is unhealthy."

News courtesy of Omy