Smog gets worse in the far North due to wildfires
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THE smog situation in Chiang Rai has worsened again and is causing visibility and health problems.
Mae Hong Son, Nan, Loei, Lampang, Chiang Mai and Phayao also have reported rising air pollution above the safety level.
Yesterday, air quality measurement information from the Pollution Control Department showed that particles of less than 10 micrometres (PM10) in Chiang Rai rose to 206 micrograms per cubic metre.
The other six provinces in the North and Northeast also had dangerous levels of air pollution – Mae Hong Son (161), Nan (147), Loei (134), Lampang (136), Chiang Mai (130) and Phayao (122).
A reading of PM10 above 120 micrograms per cubic metre is considered a threat to public health.
Many people in Chiang Rai have experienced eye irritation and running nose due to the air pollution.
Mae Fah Luang Airport in Chiang Rai is prepared for the worst, even though air traffic has not been interrupted by low visibility.
The increase in air pollution in Chiang Rai province is due to wildfires along the border area with Myanmar. The wildfires have reportedly been brought under control.
Pollution Control Department records reveal that the North had faced a long period of smog last month, with relief coming at the end of the month.
The air quality in many provinces was downgraded again at the beginning of April.
