Thailand Braces for Heatwave Amid Rising Air Pollution Levels 

PRESS RELEASE:

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for residents, especially in the northern parts of Thailand, to prepare for a surge in temperatures expected to occur from the end of March through early April.

TMD’s Observation Division Director Somkuan Tonjan said while the lower northeast, central, and eastern regions of Thailand will experience some rainfall due to southerly winds until Thursday (Mar 28), a subsequent increase in temperatures is anticipated across the North between March 30 and April 3. This weather shift is likely to lead to a rise in certain health issues among the population.

In contrast, the southern region of Thailand is forecasted to receive ongoing rainfall attributed to easterly winds, though no significant windy conditions are expected during this period.

Compounding environmental concerns, several provinces in the North and Northeast are currently grappling with hazardous levels of PM2.5 pollutants. Chiang Mai, in particular, has been identified as having the fifth-worst air quality globally, recording an air quality index of 162 on Monday.

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry’s Air Pollution Solution Communication Center reported that 26 provinces, primarily in the northern and northeastern areas, have observed PM2.5 concentrations surpassing the threshold of 37.5 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³). Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Region (BMR) has recorded relatively better air quality, with PM2.5 levels ranging from 16.6 to 32.8 μg/m³.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

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Goongnang Suksawat
Goong Nang is a News Translator who has worked professionally for multiple news organizations in Thailand for many years and has worked with The Pattaya News for five years. Specializes primarily in local news for Phuket, Pattaya, and also some national news, with emphasis on translation between Thai to English and working as an intermediary between reporters and English-speaking writers. Originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, but lives in Phuket and Krabi except when commuting between the three.