BANGKOK, Thailand – Air pollution in Bangkok reached hazardous “red” levels in two districts on Friday, as toxic PM2.5 dust exceeded safety standards in 43 provinces across Thailand, prompting authorities to ramp up cloud-seeding operations.
Bangkok’s Air Quality Information Center reported an average PM2.5 concentration of 57.3 µg/m³, with readings peaking at 86.6 µg/m³.
The Bang Rak and Lat Krabang districts were flagged as high-risk zones, with officials advising residents to avoid all outdoor activities.
The Pollution Control Department attributed the morning’s murky skies to a combination of high humidity—averaging 88% in the capital—and stagnant air, which trapped dust particles near the surface.
In response, the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation has intensified “atmospheric piercing” techniques, deploying additional flights to spray dry ice and cold water to disperse the smog.
“We have ordered an increase in aircraft and flight frequencies to break through atmospheric inversions,” said Rachen Silparaya, Director-General of the department. He noted that while these operations successfully halved dust levels in some areas yesterday, illegal nighttime agricultural burning and transboundary haze remain significant challenges.
Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) is supporting the mission by coordinating five flight rotations daily across outer Bangkok and surrounding provinces, including Samut Prakan and Samut Sakhon, to mitigate the impact on public health. (TNA)
