Singapore air quality hits ‘unhealthy’ for first time in 2 years as haze returns

Singapore’s air pollution index crossed into the “unhealthy” range on Saturday for the first time since 2023, as smoke from regional forest fires drifted over the city-state. The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI)—a measure of fine particles and gases in the air—rose above 100, the threshold that triggers health warnings. Readings stayed in that zone for several hours before easing slightly, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). A PSI reading between 101 and 200 means that people with heart or lung conditions, the elderly, and children should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor activity. Healthy individuals may also feel irritation in the eyes, nose, or throat. The last time Singapore recorded an unhealthy PSI level was in October 2023, when dry weather and fires in neighboring Indonesia caused a brief spike. This weekend’s haze follows weeks of hot, dry conditions in the region, which have increased the risk of peatland and plantation fires. The NEA said it is monitoring the situation and advised residents to close windows, use air purifiers, and check the updated PSI readings before planning outdoor exercise. No official advisory has been issued to suspend schools or public events as of Sunday morning, but meteorologists warn that wind patterns could push more smoke toward the island in the coming days. Singapore has faced periodic haze crises for decades, with the worst episode on record occurring in 2015, when PSI levels exceeded 300, prompting a rare shutdown of schools and outdoor work.