There Could Be Slight Haze in the Next Few Days as 16 Hotspots Are Detected

I don’t know about you, but the only haze I enjoy is the one on Friday nights after I have too many drinks.

Unfortunately, the other lung-polluting, nostril-inflaming kind may be visiting us in the next few days.

NEA advisory

In its first daily haze advisory for the year, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said Singapore could experience “slightly hazy conditions” in the next few days.

This could happen if there is “further escalation of hotspot activities in Sumatra and the winds change to blow from the southwest”.

If you come to our app daily, you’d know that Mr Haze is already on his way, but no one has expected it to take a Grab instead of public transport.

Hotspots

NEA warned of a possible haze in its daily advisory after persistent hotspots with haze were detected over Sumatra and Kalimantan on yesterday (4 Aug 2019).

According to the NEA, a total of 16 hotspots were detected in Sumatra due to cloud cover. Smoke haze from persistent hotspots also continues to be observed in the Riau and Jambi provinces of Sumatra.

PSI

As the NEA reported, the 24-hr PSI yesterday was 53-57, which is in the Moderate range. It remained in the Moderate range on today (5 Aug), with a PSI of 55-57. So, we’re safe for the moment and this is no excuse reason to skip your run.

Health impact

“The health impact of haze is dependent on one’s health status, the PSI level, and the length and intensity of outdoor activity. Reducing outdoor activities and physical exertion can help limit the ill effects from haze exposure”, said NEA.

The NEA also advised those who are not feeling well during the haze, especially those with chronic heart or lung conditions, to seek medical attention.

We may think that we’re young and healthy, but the haze can affect anyone. Even in those without chronic lung conditions, exposure to the haze can cause respiratory problems.

So, here are some tips to keep yourself safe from the haze.

• Stay indoors with closed doors as far as possible
• Roll up the windows of your car if you are driving
• Use an air-conditioner in your home to help remove pollutants
• Use an air ioniser or air purifier to catch very small particles.
• Drink more water than usual – this helps the kidneys flush out any toxins absorbed through the skin and lungs
• Cut down on coffee and alcohol – these promote fluid loss and leach nutrients from the body (pretty new to us, right?)
• Build up your immunity with foods rich in vitamin C (oranges, guava, strawberries), vitamin E (nuts and seeds) and omega-3 fatty acids (oily fish).
• Cover your nose and mouth with a facemask when you go out for prolonged periods.

Stay safe!