BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin has directed the Center for Air Pollution Mitigation to closely monitor transboundary haze in Southern Thailand, as hot, dry weather caused by the El Niño phenomenon is worsening regional air pollution. This directive follows an elevated warning from the ASEAN Specialized Meteorological Centre about transboundary smoke movement. Pollution Control Department Director-General Surin Worakitthamrong stated that southern PM2.5 levels remain safe due to recent rainfall in provinces such as Phang Nga and Ranong. However, prevailing southerly winds could carry smoke toward the Thai border.
Satellite data from GISTDA on August 24, recorded 5,122 hotspots in Indonesia and only four in Thailand. As a result, authorities have placed the southern border provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala under special surveillance. These areas have persistently low air ventilation, which encourages dust accumulation. High morning humidity may also cause visible smog.
The Thai Meteorological Department forecasts increased and locally heavy rainfall along the upper southwestern coast, including Ranong and Phang Nga, from August 27 to 29, 2026. This rainfall is expected to help disperse accumulated dust in the upper southern region. The mitigation center will continue to monitor hotspots, wind patterns, and overall air quality to provide timely public alerts. Officials stated that if transboundary haze severely affects the country, the Thai government will formally ask the ASEAN Secretary-General to urge neighboring nations to reduce their hotspots and limit public impact. (NNT)
