Singapore Could See Hazy Skies In The Coming Weeks—Here’s What You Need To Know

Singapore may be in for hazier days ahead. In Parliament yesterday (February 12, 2026), Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu said hotspot activity in the region could increase in the coming weeks, potentially leading to hazy conditions affecting Singapore.

The reason? Drier weather linked to the current Northeast Monsoon, combined with wind patterns that could carry smoke from land and forest fires in neighbouring countries towards our shores.

For now, air quality remains within the good to moderate range but authorities are watching closely.

Why Haze Could Return

According to Ms Fu, dry conditions in the region may lead to more fire hotspots, particularly in parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan. If winds blow in Singapore’s direction, we could see haze episodes develop.

She noted that Singapore’s 24-hour PSI levels so far this year have stayed in the good to moderate range, with a recent high of 69 on February 8, 2026 (well below unhealthy levels).

In short: no immediate cause for alarm. But it’s haze season, and preparedness matters.

What Exactly Is Haze?

Haze is a form of air pollution caused by fine particulate matter, often from vegetation and peatland fires. In Singapore’s case, it’s usually transboundary, meaning it originates outside our borders and drifts here depending on wind conditions.

The biggest concern during haze episodes is PM2.5, tiny particles small enough to enter deep into the lungs and bloodstream.

That’s why even if the skyline just looks a little blurry, authorities track the numbers closely.

PSI, PM2.5 And What Those Numbers Mean

Singapore measures air quality using the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI):

• 0–50: Good

• 51–100: Moderate

• 101–200: Unhealthy

• 201–300: Very Unhealthy

• 300+: Hazardous

When PSI moves into the unhealthy range, health advisories kick in, especially for vulnerable groups.

Authorities also monitor PM2.5 concentrations, which tend to drive haze-related health risks.

Image credit: Health Hub | Website

Why Monitoring Matters

Haze isn’t just about murky Marina Bay selfies. Short-term exposure can cause:

• Eye and throat irritation

• Coughing and breathing discomfort

• Worsening of asthma and heart or lung conditions

The elderly, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable.

That’s why the government maintains a multi-agency Haze Task Force, involving 28 agencies, ready to activate public health measures if conditions deteriorate. This includes stockpiling N95 masks and deploying air purifiers in schools, hospitals and nursing homes if needed.

What You Should Do

For now, it’s business as usual, but smart to stay informed.

• Check PSI and PM2.5 levels on the myENV app

• Reduce prolonged outdoor exercise if readings climb

• Stay hydrated

• Use an N95 mask if air quality reaches unhealthy levels and you need to be outdoors for extended periods

Weather changes, including rain and shifting winds, can also improve conditions quickly so haze episodes can fluctuate.

The Bottom Line

Singapore isn’t currently experiencing unhealthy haze levels, but conditions in the region mean it’s a situation to monitor.

As always during haze season: keep an eye on the numbers, listen to advisories, and don’t panic-buy air purifiers just yet.

We’ll keep you updated if the skies start looking noticeably greyer.

Looking for more? Check out:

• Crocodile Spotted Swimming Near Sentosa: Here’s What You Need To Know
• Singaporeans Are Heading Back To Western Australia In Record Numbers—Here’s Why
• Nipah Virus Explained: What It Is, Where It’s Been Found And What It Means For Travellers

Main image credit: Health Hub | Website