PM2.5 levels exceed the standard across five Bangkok districts
Yan Nawa records the highest PM2.5 reading at 48 micrograms per cubic metre as Bangkok advises masks and precautions for vulnerable groups.
- Five districts in Bangkok recorded PM2.5 levels exceeding the standard of 37.5 µg/m³, reaching levels that begin to affect public health.
- The Yan Nawa district had the highest reading at 48.0 µg/m³, followed by Prawet, Khlong Toei, Pathum Wan, and Bang Khun Thian.
- While the citywide average remained below the standard, these specific districts were identified as "pollution hotspots," particularly in business and high-traffic areas.
- Health officials have advised vulnerable individuals and outdoor workers in the affected areas to wear protective masks and limit strenuous outdoor activities.
Bangkok faced fresh air pollution warnings on Friday (October 9, 2026), with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) reaching the orange category in several areas.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Centre’s 7am report showed pollution at levels that begin to affect public health.
Although the citywide average was 29.2 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³), below the standard of 37.5 µg/m³, individual areas experienced serious particle accumulation.
“Yan Nawa district” recorded the capital’s highest reading at 48 µg/m³, while four other districts also exceeded the standard.
Vulnerable people and outdoor workers were urged to remain vigilant and wear protective masks.
Five districts exceed the PM2.5 standard
Overall air quality at 7am was rated moderate, although readings at individual locations showed concerning “pollution hotspots”, particularly in business areas and along busy routes.
Five districts exceeded the standard of 37.5 µg/m³, entering the “orange category (beginning to affect health)”.
Five highest PM2.5 readings
- Yan Nawa: 48.0 µg/m³ (the highest-risk area that morning)
- Prawet: 40.4 µg/m³
- Khlong Toei: 40.0 µg/m³
- Pathum Wan: 39.5 µg/m³
- Bang Khun Thian: 38.5 µg/m³
The high rankings of central districts and key transport hubs such as Yan Nawa, Khlong Toei and Pathum Wan reflect heavy morning traffic combined with the onset of still weather, which prevents fine particles from dispersing normally.
Bangkok’s 12 highest PM2.5 readings
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Centre ranked the 12 locations with the highest PM2.5 concentrations to help residents plan their journeys and outdoor activities for the day.
- Yan Nawa: 48 µg/m³
- Prawet: 40.4 µg/m³
- Khlong Toei: 40 µg/m³
- Pathum Wan: 39.5 µg/m³
- Bang Khun Thian: 38.5 µg/m³
- Bang Na: 35.5 µg/m³
- Sathon: 34.9 µg/m³
- Rat Burana: 34.5 µg/m³
- Public Park in Commemoration of His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday, Bang Kho Laem district: 33.1 µg/m³
- Nong Khaem: 32.7 µg/m³
- Thon Buri: 32.7 µg/m³
- Phasi Charoen: 32.7 µg/m³
PM2.5 readings by area
- Northern Bangkok: 21.3–31 µg/m³.
- Eastern Bangkok: 20.9–40.4 µg/m³.
- Central Bangkok: 21.7–32.6 µg/m³.
- Southern Bangkok: 24.5–48 µg/m³.
- Northern Krung Thon: 23–32.7 µg/m³.
- Southern Krung Thon: 25.5–38.5 µg/m³.
Particle pollution was showing an upward trend, while overall air quality was moderate.
Health advice and warning symptoms
With particle levels showing an upward trend, the Bangkok Air Quality Information Centre issued health advice for the orange category to help prevent long-term effects.
For the general public
- Wear a mask that protects against PM2.5, such as an N95 or another mask that meets protection standards, whenever going outdoors.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, such as running, and temporarily exercise indoors or in a gym instead.
- Watch for unusual symptoms, including coughing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness or eye irritation.
For vulnerable groups, including young children, older people, pregnant women and people with chronic respiratory or heart conditions
- Avoid outdoor activities altogether.
- If it is necessary to go outdoors, wear full protective equipment and keep the time outside as short as possible.
- Follow doctors’ advice strictly and see a doctor immediately if unusual symptoms develop.
