CHIANG MAI, Feb 28 (TNA) – Several provinces in the northern region began to face toxic smog as Chiang Mai was ranked among top ten among the world’s most polluted city on Wednesday.
Chiang Mai’s provincial seat was heavily shrouded in thick smoke haze this morning, making it nearly impossible to see the iconic Doi Suthep mountain, which serves as a visual indicator of the air pollution levels.
The hourly PM 2.5 measurements exceeded 100 micrograms per cubic meter in certain areas such as Suan Dok community, recording the PM2.5 level of 177 microgrames per cubic meter, according to data from the Chiang Mai University’s air quality monitoring center.
This morning, Chiang Mai climbed to the 8th position globally for major cities with pollution, according to rankings by the IQAir website. Thirteen pollution hotspots were identified in Chiang Mai, primarily concentrated in Mae Chaem district, totaling to 7 spots.
Similarly, several provinces in the northern region are grappling with the issue of toxic smog. During the morning hours, when cold air prevents the pollutants from dispersing, some areas in Mueang district, Lamphun province recorded PM levels surpassing 600 micrograms per cubic meter.
Mr. Somkuan Tonjan, Director of the Weather Forecasting Division at the Meteorological Department, expressed concerns over the current air pollution situation, particularly in the northern region, especially in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai.
The high PM 2.5 levels are currently under investigation to determine whether they originate from local sources or are transported across borders, especially from neighboring Myanmar, which is experiencing a significant increase in hotspots.
Recent weather patterns with northwesterly winds also bring smoke into northern Thailand, exacerbating existing hotspot issues in the kingdom. The current dry spell, which has reduced rainfall to almost zero, has left wind as the primary factor influencing the fluctuation of pollution levels. -819 (TNA)
