Singapore's air quality deteriorates to 'unhealthy' levels amid elevated PM2.5

Singapore's air quality deteriorated on Tuesday, with the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index ranging between 144 and 191 across monitoring stations at 7am, placing readings firmly in the 'unhealthy' category. One-hour PM2.5 concentrations were measured between 83 and 119 micrograms per cubic metre, substantially above the National Environment Agency's recommended levels.

The decline marks a return to concerning pollution levels after periods of better air quality. The PSI range spanning 144 to 191 indicates air quality levels where members of the general public, particularly the young, elderly and those with respiratory or heart conditions, may experience health effects.

Fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, poses the greatest health risk as these microscopic particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The readings recorded across Singapore's regions underscore the pervasiveness of the current air quality challenge, with no area spared from elevated pollution levels.

Residents have been advised to monitor air quality updates from the National Environment Agency and consider reducing outdoor activities, particularly for vulnerable populations. The haze situation remains subject to change depending on meteorological conditions and transboundary pollution sources affecting the region.