Singapore’s Haze Risk Is Rising: Everything You Need To Know

If Singapore suddenly starts looking a little hazy, there's a reason. The Government has been stepping up preparations for a potential haze episode, with agencies reviewing their plans as dry and hot conditions across the region increase the risk of fires—and potentially, smoke drifting our way.

That doesn't mean Singapore is definitely heading for a full-blown haze crisis. Whether smoke actually reaches us depends on where fires are burning, how intense they are, wind direction and rainfall. But with conditions looking less than ideal, it's a good time to know what to look out for.

So, What's Causing The Haze Risk?

Much of the concern comes from fires in parts of Indonesia, particularly Sumatra and Kalimantan. Hotter and drier conditions linked to El Niño are making it easier for fires to start and spread, while the prevailing winds can potentially carry smoke towards Singapore.

Singapore's Government Haze Task Force, led by the National Environment Agency, has been reviewing its preparations and has plans in place for different levels of haze.

How Will You Know If The Haze Is Bad?

Keep an eye on Singapore's Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) and, particularly, the one-hour PM2.5 readings.

The PSI gives you a broader picture of air quality, while PM2.5 measures tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs. If you're deciding whether to head out for a run, take the kids to the playground or spend the afternoon outside, the PM2.5 reading is particularly useful.

As a general guide, a PSI of 101 or above is considered unhealthy.

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What Does Haze Do To Your Health?

Even relatively mild haze can cause irritated eyes, a scratchy throat, coughing and breathing discomfort.

As the air quality worsens, the risks increase, particularly for children, older people, pregnant women and those with existing heart or lung conditions. If you develop significant breathing difficulties, chest pain or other worrying symptoms, seek medical attention.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

The good news is there are some very easy things you can do if the air quality deteriorates:

Check the air quality: Use the myENV app or NEA's official updates rather than relying on how hazy the sky looks.

Limit outdoor exercise: If the PSI rises into the unhealthy range, swap your outdoor run for an indoor workout.

Keep windows and doors closed: Particularly when outdoor air quality is poor.

Use an air purifier: A purifier with an appropriate filter can help reduce indoor particulate pollution.

Wear an N95 if needed: If you have to spend time outdoors during unhealthy haze, a properly fitted N95 mask can help reduce exposure to fine particles.

Look after kids and vulnerable family members: Consider moving outdoor play and activities indoors when air quality worsens.

Should You Be Worried?

Not yet, but it's worth being prepared. The Government is monitoring the situation closely, and Singapore has an established system for responding if haze levels deteriorate.

So, rather than panic-buying every air purifier in Singapore, just keep an eye on the readings, dig out those N95s if you already have them and maybe have a few indoor activities ready to go.

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Main image credit: Health Hub | Website