SINGAPORE — Haze conditions across Singapore worsened on Friday (Oct. 9), with air quality approaching the very unhealthy range in several areas as smoke from regional fires continued to drift towards the island.
At noon, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) in central Singapore reached 181, the highest reading recorded so far in 2026. Western Singapore recorded 170, while the southern region registered 160. Readings ranged from 123 in the north to 181 in the central region.
The deterioration comes as Singapore enters the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix weekend, when large numbers of residents and visitors are expected to spend time outdoors attending races and related events.
Central Singapore records year’s highest PSI
The National Environment Agency (NEA) classifies PSI readings from 101 to 200 as unhealthy, while readings from 201 to 300 are considered very unhealthy.
Although central Singapore’s reading of 181 had not crossed the very unhealthy threshold, it indicated worsening air quality and the need for residents to pay attention to health advisories.
The latest figures followed another night of elevated readings. On Thursday (Oct. 8), the 24-hour PSI had already entered the unhealthy range across all five regions, with western Singapore recording 161 at 6am.
One-hour PM2.5 readings also rose on Friday. Central Singapore entered the high band with a reading of 151 micrograms per cubic metre, while the east recorded 147, the west 117, the north 113 and the south 104.
PM2.5 refers to fine particles measuring 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter. These particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, making them a particular concern during haze episodes.
Smoke from Sumatra and Kalimantan contributes to haze
The NEA has observed moderate to dense smoke plumes drifting from southern and central Sumatra, as well as parts of Kalimantan, towards Singapore.
Dry conditions were expected to persist in fire-prone areas, while prevailing southeasterly and southerly winds could continue carrying smoke towards the island. The regional haze situation remains dependent on weather conditions, wind direction and the development of fires.
The agency has advised residents to monitor the latest 24-hour PSI forecast when planning activities for the following day and to check one-hour PM2.5 readings when deciding whether to exercise or undertake other outdoor activities immediately.
Residents urged to take precautions
Health advice varies according to the severity of the haze, the length of exposure and a person’s underlying health.
When one-hour PM2.5 readings are elevated, healthy individuals are advised to reduce strenuous outdoor activity for the following hour. Older adults, pregnant women, children and people with chronic heart or lung conditions should avoid strenuous outdoor activity when levels are elevated.
Residents can also consider limiting prolonged outdoor exposure, keeping indoor environments as clean as possible and following official updates if symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation or breathing difficulties develop.
People with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should follow their healthcare providers’ advice and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Haze raises concerns during F1 weekend
The timing presents an added challenge for Singapore’s Grand Prix weekend, which features outdoor racing, entertainment and fan activities.
Visitors planning to attend events should check the latest air-quality readings before heading out and adjust their activities according to official health guidance. Conditions can differ across the island and may change throughout the day.
While the central region’s PSI reading of 181 remained below the very unhealthy threshold, the upward trend highlights the importance of monitoring developments as the weekend progresses.
Outlook remains dependent on regional conditions
Singapore’s air quality will depend largely on whether dry conditions and fires persist in parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan, and whether prevailing winds continue carrying smoke towards the island.
The NEA’s regional outlook indicates that haze risks may remain elevated in areas experiencing prolonged dry weather, even as showers could improve conditions in some locations.
For residents and visitors, the immediate priority is to monitor official air-quality updates, take sensible precautions and remain alert to changes in the haze situation over the coming days.
