Severe PM2.5 pollution hits Bangkok, with air quality in critical zones worsening
Severe PM2.5 levels in Bangkok reach their highest point of the year, with areas like Bang Rak, Pathum Wan, and Sathorn facing health impacts. Health advice issued for residents.
The Bangkok Air Quality Information Centre reported that PM2.5 levels in Bangkok reached their highest point of the year as of January 14, 2026. The situation has significantly worsened in areas such as Bang Rak, Pathum Wan, and Sathorn, with Bangkok’s average PM2.5 level reaching 58.1 micrograms per cubic meter, which is far above the safety standard of 37.5 micrograms per cubic meter.
PM2.5 levels in key zones across the city include:
- Bang Rak: 86.9 µg/m³
- Pathum Wan: 83.4 µg/m³
- Sathorn: 78.5 µg/m³
- Chatuchak: 74.1 µg/m³
- Ratchathewi: 64.5 µg/m³
- Lat Krabang: 63.9 µg/m³
- Bang Sue: 63.8 µg/m³
- Prawet: 63.7 µg/m³
- Lak Si: 62.6 µg/m³
- Nong Kham: 62.4 µg/m³
- Bang Khen: 61.4 µg/m³
- Khlong Sam Wa: 61.2 µg/m³
Areas of concern
The air quality index in six key districts is now showing impacts on public health. PM2.5 levels are especially high in the north, east, and central areas, making the air quality harmful to health. Bangkok's northern and central areas report readings from 53.7 to 74.1 µg/m³, which could cause health problems.
Advice for the public:
- General public should wear PM2.5 masks when outside, limit outdoor activities, and stay alert for symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing.
- At-risk groups, including the elderly or those with pre-existing health conditions, should avoid strenuous outdoor activities and follow medical advice.
What to do in red zones
In areas with severe air quality, avoid outdoor activities. If essential, ensure to wear protective equipment, such as PM2.5 masks. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience unusual symptoms.
Residents with pre-existing health conditions should stay in areas protected from air pollution and have medications and necessary equipment ready.
DDPM issues Cell Broadcast warning
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) on Tuesday issued a Cell Broadcast warning about PM2.5 levels in Bangkok, stating that as of 7:00 AM, the dust levels were as follows: 84.6 µg/m³ in Pathum Wan, 79.3 µg/m³ in Sathorn, and 75.5 µg/m³ in Chatuchak, all of which are harmful to health. The air quality is expected to remain poor over the next 1-2 days. People are advised to wear masks to protect against dust and avoid outdoor activities. If you experience any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention.
People can report incidents or request assistance via the Line account “ปภ.รับแจ้งเหตุ 1784” (add Line ID @1784DDPM) or call the DDPM hotline at 1784 (available 24/7).
