Singapore’s air quality saw significant improvement on October 26, as PM2.5 levels returned to the normal range, providing relief from recent hazy conditions. The National Environment Agency reported that hourly PM2.5 readings across the country’s five regions varied between 28 and 40, while the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) remained in the good-to-moderate range, from 67 to 74.
PM2.5 readings are crucial for measuring fine particulate pollution, while the 24-hour PSI provides an overview of air quality based on six key air pollutants. A PSI score between 0 and 100 is considered good to moderate, while readings from 101 to 200 indicate unhealthy air quality levels. The forecast for October 27 predicted a PSI between 60 and 90, suggesting continued moderate air quality.
Despite smoke haze over Kalimantan, the likelihood of it affecting Singapore was deemed low, thanks to anticipated northeasterly or southeasterly winds and forecast showers. This weather pattern is expected to persist through October 28 and 29, with variable winds and further showers likely to suppress hotspot activity and mitigate the risk of smoke haze.
Authorities have advised residents, especially vulnerable groups such as children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, to limit outdoor activities if air quality deteriorates to unhealthy levels. This advisory remains in place as a precautionary measure, even with the current improvements in air quality.