Singapore air quality slides into unhealthy range as haze returns October 5

Air quality in central and western Singapore slipped into the unhealthy range early on October 5, with the 24-hour PSI reading at 111 in the central region and 103 in the west. The National Environment Agency attributed the deterioration to moderate to dense smoke plumes drifting from southern Sumatra and fires in Kalimantan. Dry weather and southeasterly winds are expected to persist, keeping the risk of further haze high.

PSI readings spike as smoke plumes drift toward Singapore

At 7am on October 5, the central region recorded a PSI of 111, while the west hit 103. Both readings fall into the unhealthy range, defined as 101 to 200. The 1-hour PM2.5 readings at the same time were elevated in central and western regions at 93 and 81 respectively, but remained normal in the north, south, and east at 49 to 52. Moderate to dense smoke plumes from southern Sumatra continued to drift toward Singapore, with additional smoke observed from fires in Kalimantan.

What the PSI readings mean for outdoor activity

The 24-hour PSI is Singapore’s main air quality indicator and guides planning for next-day outdoor activities. An hourly PM2.5 reading between 56 and 150 signals elevated fine particle concentration and warrants caution for immediate outdoor plans. The National Environment Agency advises checking the 1-hour PM2.5 readings for same-day activities and using the 24-hour PSI forecast for planning ahead. Health impact depends on personal health status, PSI level, and duration and intensity of outdoor exposure.

Dry conditions expected to worsen haze risk

Dry weather is forecast to continue over Singapore and the surrounding region on October 5, with southeasterly or southwesterly winds expected to persist. The 24-hour PSI is forecast to remain in the high moderate to low unhealthy range for the next 24 hours. The PSI last crossed into the unhealthy range on September 30, when central Singapore recorded a peak of 134. The year’s highest reading was 167 on September 29, also in the central region.

How the PSI is calculated and monitored

The 24-hour PSI is a rolling average of six air pollutants: PM2.5, PM10, ozone, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. PM2.5, fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or shorter, is the dominant pollutant during haze and causes the most health harm. The 1-hour PM2.5 reading reflects air quality at a single point in time and is used for immediate activity decisions, while the 24-hour PSI guides longer-term planning.

Final Thoughts

Singapore faces elevated haze risk through October 5 as Indonesian smoke continues drifting across the island. Residents in central and western regions should check hourly PM2.5 readings before outdoor activity and plan next-day activities based on the 24-hour PSI forecast.

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