08 Jan 2020 | 03:40 PM UTC
Thailand: Fine dust reported above safe levels in Bangkok January 8
Fine dust reported above safe levels in Bangkok and neighboring provinces as of January 8; situation likely to persist over the coming days
Event
As of Wednesday, January 8, the Thai Pollution Control Department (PCD) reported an unsafe level of PM2.5 fine dust concentration between 40-70 micrograms per cubic meters for 38 areas in Bangkok and the neighboring provinces of Samut Prakhan, Nonthaburi, Samut Sakhon, and Pathum Thani.
The most affected areas include Bung Kum, Bang Khuntien, Bang Na, Pathumwan, Thon Buri, and Wang Thonglang districts in the capital, Muang and Phra Pradaeng in Samut Prakhan, Pakkret district in Nonthaburi, Krathum Baen district in Samut Sakhon, and Khlong Luang district in Pathum Thani.
The situation is likely to continue over the coming days.
Context
A concentration of PM2.5 fine dust above 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air is considered unsafe.
Advice
Individuals in Bangkok, Samut Prakhan, Nonthaburi, Samut Sakhon, and Pathum Thani are advised to monitor the situation, watch for updates and health advisories issued by the Pollution Control Department (PCD), limit outdoor activities until the situation normalize or wear N95 rated masks as a protection. Children and those with chronic respiratory illnesses should exercise increased caution. Individuals are advised to seek medical attention if experiencing breathing difficulties or other health concerns.
