Western Singapore’s 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached 203 at 9pm on 14 October, entering the “very unhealthy” range for the first time this year.
The west was the only region above 200 at that hour. Air quality in the other four regions remained in the unhealthy range, with central Singapore recording the next-highest reading of 184.
The regional readings at 9pm were:
| Region | 24-Hour PSI | Air Quality |
|---|---|---|
| West | 203 | Very unhealthy |
| Central | 184 | Unhealthy |
| East | 174 | Unhealthy |
| South | 161 | Unhealthy |
| North | 127 | Unhealthy |
These readings reflect conditions at 9pm on 14 October.
Under Singapore’s air-quality categories, PSI readings from 101 to 200 are unhealthy, while readings from 201 to 300 are very unhealthy. The hazardous category begins above 300.
Haze Expected To Persist Into 15 October
In its 14 October advisory, the National Environment Agency (NEA) forecast Singapore’s 24-hour PSI to remain in the unhealthy to very unhealthy range.
It said southeasterly winds were carrying dense smoke haze from fires in Kalimantan towards Singapore, with this expected to continue overnight and into 15 October. Smoke haze was also observed over Sumatra.
Although showers were forecast for Singapore and parts of the surrounding region, dry conditions were expected to persist over parts of southern Sumatra and Kalimantan.
Earlier PM2.5 Spike And Sports Facility Closures
Earlier that afternoon, the west’s one-hour PM2.5 concentration reached 288 micrograms per cubic metre at 3pm, placing it in the “very high” band.
That figure measures fine-particle concentrations averaged over one hour. It is a separate reading from the 24-hour PSI.
For decisions about immediate outdoor activities, such as going for a run, the one-hour PM2.5 reading indicates current conditions. The 24-hour PSI forecast helps people plan activities for the following day.
Sport Singapore’s advisory, updated at 11pm on 14 October, confirmed temporary closures of outdoor and non-air-conditioned facilities at ActiveSG sport centres in the west because of elevated 24-hour PSI readings.
Its closure list includes affected facilities on 15 October. Visitors should check the latest facility notices before heading down, as individual closures and operating arrangements can change.
What The Very Unhealthy Range Means
Under the Ministry of Health’s advisory for PSI readings between 201 and 300, healthy people should avoid lengthy or strenuous physical exertion outdoors.
Older people, pregnant women and children should keep outdoor activity to a minimum. People with chronic lung or heart disease should avoid outdoor activity.
MOH says the effects of haze depend on a person’s health, pollution levels, and how long and intensely they are active outdoors. Anyone who feels unwell, particularly children, older people and those with existing heart or lung conditions, should seek medical advice.
Residents can check updated readings and advisories through NEA’s haze website or the myENV app.
