Post by : Rohit Dhiman

Singapore continued to experience unhealthy air quality on Saturday, October 10, 2026, as smoke haze affected different parts of the city-state. Although pollution readings declined overnight after reaching their highest level of the current haze season on Friday, air quality remained a concern for residents, workers and visitors. The latest figures released by the National Environment Agency (NEA) showed that the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) remained within the unhealthy category across all five regions. The situation has drawn attention to the potential health effects of prolonged exposure to polluted air, particularly for children, older adults and people with respiratory conditions. The continuing Singapore haze has also raised concerns because the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix weekend is taking place at Marina Bay, where outdoor activities and large public gatherings are scheduled.

Singapore PSI Readings: Latest Regional Air Quality Update

At 10am on October 10, the 24-hour PSI readings indicated unhealthy air quality throughout Singapore. Central Singapore recorded the highest reading at 174, followed by the western region at 160. The eastern region registered 156, while the south recorded 135 and the north stood at 124. These figures represented an improvement compared with Friday afternoon, when central Singapore recorded a PSI of 192 at 5pm. That reading marked the highest level reported during Singapore's current haze season. A subsequent update covering noon on Saturday showed that pollution levels continued to fluctuate. The reported 24-hour PSI readings were 171 in the central region, 161 in the west, 154 in the east, 134 in the south and 122 in the north.

What Is Causing the Haze in Singapore?

The current episode of Singapore air pollution has been linked to smoke haze drifting from southern Sumatra and Kalimantan in Indonesia. Smoke from fires in these areas can travel across national borders, affecting visibility and air quality in neighbouring countries. The NEA had warned on Friday that the 24-hour PSI could rise above 200, potentially pushing air quality into the very unhealthy category. While readings remained below that threshold in the five regions during the reported Saturday morning period, authorities continued to monitor the situation. The movement of haze depends on several factors, including wind patterns, atmospheric conditions and the intensity of fires in affected areas. Consequently, a decline in readings over several hours does not necessarily mean that the haze has ended.

Understanding PSI and PM2.5 Levels in Singapore

The Pollutant Standards Index is used to communicate air pollution levels and help the public understand potential health risks. Singapore's reported PSI categories range from good to hazardous, with readings between 101 and 200 classified as unhealthy. A PSI reading of 201 to 300 falls within the very unhealthy category, while readings above 300 are considered hazardous. These classifications help authorities determine when additional precautions may be necessary. Alongside PSI figures, officials monitor fine particulate matter known as PM2.5. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, making them an important indicator during haze episodes.

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NEA Monitoring and Singapore's Haze Response Measures

Singapore has activated its Haze Task Force, which comprises 28 government agencies. The task force is prepared to coordinate measures if air quality deteriorates further. Authorities have identified several steps that could be implemented if the 24-hour PSI exceeds 200. These include distributing N95 masks to eligible Singaporeans and establishing air-conditioned haze shelters at community clubs and selected residents' committee and residents' network centres. Such measures are intended to help people reduce their exposure to polluted air during periods of worsening haze. The availability and implementation of specific measures will depend on the conditions and official announcements. The authorities are also monitoring the potential impact on schools, childcare facilities, workplaces and outdoor events. Their response may be adjusted according to the severity and expected duration of the pollution episode.

Health Precautions During Unhealthy Air Quality

During periods of unhealthy air quality, residents should consider limiting prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities, particularly when official advisories recommend doing so. People who are more sensitive to air pollution, including children, older adults and individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions, may need to take additional precautions.

Practical steps include:

• Check the latest PSI and PM2.5 readings before planning outdoor activities.

• Reduce strenuous outdoor exercise when pollution levels are elevated.

• Spend more time in a clean, indoor environment when necessary.

• Follow health advisories and instructions issued by the relevant authorities.

• Seek medical advice if breathing difficulties or other concerning symptoms develop.

An N95 mask may help reduce exposure to fine particles when properly fitted, but it does not eliminate every health risk associated with haze. People should follow official recommendations and consider their individual circumstances. Employers have also been advised to limit outdoor work when conditions require additional protection. Preschools must stop outdoor activities and strenuous indoor activities when air quality reaches the very unhealthy category. Outdoor sporting activities may also be modified or suspended, depending on conditions. Schools could face closure if the following day's 24-hour PSI is forecast to exceed 300 and enter the hazardous range.

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