Air quality in Singapore saw improvement on October 26, as hourly PM2.5 readings returned to the normal range and the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) stayed within the good-to-moderate band across the island. This change comes as a relief to residents who have faced weeks of hazy conditions.
At 6 p.m., PM2.5 readings across Singapore’s five regions ranged from 28 to 40, while the 24-hour PSI was between 67 and 74. PM2.5 readings measure fine particulate pollution, and the PSI provides an overall air quality assessment based on six key pollutants. A PSI ranging from 0 to 100 is considered good to moderate, while a reading between 101 to 200 indicates unhealthy air quality.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) has forecast a moderate PSI of 60 to 90 for October 27. Although smoke haze was observed over Kalimantan, the likelihood of it affecting Singapore was deemed low due to expected northeasterly or southeasterly winds and forecast showers.
In the upcoming days, variable winds and further showers are anticipated on October 28 and 29. The wet weather is expected to help suppress hotspot activity and reduce the risk of smoke haze, offering further improvement in air quality conditions.
Authorities advise residents, particularly children, older adults, and those with existing health conditions, to limit outdoor activities if air quality reaches unhealthy levels. This precautionary measure aims to protect vulnerable groups from potential health risks associated with poor air quality.