Smog Threats in Chiang Mai Province
CHIANG MAI: -- After smoke from fires has lingered over Chiang Mai and its surrounding area, the province is now reeling under high pollution levels, which could have a negative effect on the residents’ health.
Chiang Mai Province has been covered with smog throughout the day. The Suthep Mountain, which normally can be observed from all over Chiang Mai, is not visible due to thick smog.
The province has been reeling under smog for a week now. Furthermore, the air-quality monitoring station at Chiang Mai's city hall has reported that the Arctic oscillation index or AOI value is now at 109, though the average value should not go above 100.
Meanwhile, the PM10 level, which indicates the density of very minute dust particles in the air, has measured at 98.95 micrograms per cubic meter.
According to the Pollution Control Department, it AOI values between 101-200 can cause harm to people’s health. For this reason, officials have warned residents with respiratory problems to avoid outdoor exercise, and for all residents, especially children and the elderly, to avoid prolonged outdoor activities.
The Director of the Chiang Mai Natural Resources and Environment Office, Banpod Kanthasen, said the overall situation is average, but each related unit must work hard and continue to monitor the situation.
Banpod said there have been 120 reports of fires from January 1 to February 14, as 716 rais of farmland have been affected. Fires have occurred most in Hod, Koi, and Doi Tao districts. Officials are now keeping a close watch on these areas.
hil
