Singapore is getting hazy recently. To recall, the previous time when Singapore was hazy and hit a Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) of 400 on July 21, 2015. It hit the worst level in 16 years since 1997 which can be life threatening to some individuals.

What are the consequences?

Short term effect of haze:
These air pollutants can cause respiratory symptoms as well as aggravate existing heart or lung disease. The exposure to particulate matter and sulphur dioxide may also cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat in individuals. However, these irritation resolves on its own most of the time. The haze particles in the air can affect the heart as well as lungs, especially in those people who already have chronic heart or lung disease e.g. asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart failure.

Long term effects of haze:
Long term exposure to air pollution may have a higher risk of cardiovascular effects, such as heart attacks, reduced lung development, as well as the development of chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma, in children.

Source from: Healthhub.sg

Where exactly is it coming from?

Haze from central Sumatra continued to be blown in by the prevailing westerly winds, according the the National Environment Agency (NEA) in a statement released at around 2.40pm on Friday (Aug 26). People could smell the haze and there are 'hazy skies' all around in Singapore, some individuals in Singapore are worried that their child might have trouble and difficulties respiring since they have asthma.

 

The PSI (3-hours) hit 215 at 2pm on August 26, 2016. This is worrying and there is a chance that it might continue rising, locals are encouraged to get a N-95 mask for themselves to prevent breathing in too much of polluted air.

PSI Reading: Click Here

         A view of central Singapore on Friday. (Photo: Calvin Oh)









I strongly suggest each and everyone of you in Singapore to get a mask for yourself as soon as possible! Stay healthy!