08 Nov 2023 | 07:45 AM UTC
Thailand: Periods of air pollution to disrupt transport across the country through April
Periods of air pollution to disrupt transport in Thailand through April. Confirm air, road, and rail travel.
Periods of severe air pollution routinely affect transport services across Thailand during winter and the fire season through April 30. Flight delays, diversions, and cancellations can occur, especially during early morning hours. Fog can also disrupt rail service and other ground transportation.
Air pollution levels often spike in urban centers during winter and the fire season. Farmers burn their fields to clear the land for the coming crop cycle, releasing pollutants into the air. Forest fires can also occur naturally due to dry conditions and flammable vegetation. Cold air and calm winds during winter often trap pollution near the surface, which has the highest impact on health and can cause travel disruptions. Northern Thailand is mountainous, trapping air pollution and smog in the valleys, especially in Chaing Mai. Rains typically start at the end of April, clearing the air of pollution.
The intensity and duration of the smoggy period have been increasing annually due to vehicle-produced pollution, among other factors. Conditions are classified as "severe" when PM 2.5 air pollution (airborne particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less, small enough to penetrate the lungs deeply) exceeds 250. Local authorities may issue health warnings in the affected areas during periods of severe air pollution and could impose vehicular and commercial restrictions. Officials could also suspend all outdoor construction projects during periods of severe air pollution and force some factories to cease operations. Such closures typically do not lead to severe supply chain disruptions but may delay some time-sensitive orders and deliveries. Schools often remain closed when air quality deteriorates; higher employee absenteeism is also probable.
Diminished air quality may prompt transport and business disruptions in the region over the coming days and weeks. Although there have been no reports of major operational disruptions arising from reduced visibility in recent days, flight delays are possible at airports in the region, such as those serving Chiang Mai (CNX) and Chiang Rai (CEI), especially during overnight and early morning hours.
Traffic disruptions resulting from inadequate visibility may occur on highways and secondary roads. Thai officials may close schools, suspend industrial activity in some areas, and implement restrictions on trucks and private vehicle usage in urban centers. Temporary measures to reduce air pollution may prompt minor supply chain and business disruptions.
Contact airlines or travel agents for updated arrival and departure times since many airlines alter their winter flight schedules. Confirm all flights and check the status of train services; do not check out of hotels without first verifying onward travel. Limit long-distance driving to the extent possible during winter months; consider booking accommodations that are close to offices or job sites. Drive cautiously in areas experiencing heavy fog or air pollution and allow extra time to reach destinations due to possible low visibility and road congestion. Plan for possible delivery delays; confirm road conditions before routing shipments through affected areas. Review contingency plans, including telecommuting options, in the event of significant air pollution.
Observe local air quality index reports. People with certain underlying high-risk health conditions - such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart and lung disease - could have adverse reactions to poor air conditions in affected areas. People with such conditions should have adequate medication and consult with a physician. Concerned individuals should limit the time spent outdoors during periods of poor air quality. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of water. Consider using a face mask during prolonged outdoor activity; only purchase anti-pollution face masks from established retailers.
