Smog levels have worsened in Bangkok with high pollution readings in 34 out of Bangkok's 50 districts, and the worst in Phra Nakhon, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration reported Monday morning.
BMA permanent secretary Silapasuay Raweesangsoon said the levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometres and less in diameter (PM2.5) ranged from 50 to 89 microgrammes per cubic metre of air in the 24 hours to 7am. The governmen-set safe threshold is 50mcg.
The health-hazardous pollution was reported in Bang Kapi, Bang Kae, Bang Khen, Bang Kholaem, Bang Khunthian, Bang Phlat, Bang Rak, Bang Sue, Bangkok Noi, Chom Thong, Din Daeng, Don Muang, Huai Khwang, Klong Sam Wa, Klong San, Klong Toey, Laksi, Lat Krabang, Lat Phrao, Pathumwan, Phasicharoen, Phaya Thai, Phra Nakhon, Pomprap Sattruphai, Rat Burana, Ratchathewi, Sai Mai, Samphanthawong, Saphan Sung, Sathon, Suan Luang, Thon Buri, Wang Thonglang and Yannawa.
Pralong Damrongthai, director-general of the Pollution Control Department, said the air quality was worse because of stagnant air and heavy traffic from Sunday. Southeasterly winds should clear some of the smog on Monday afternoon, he said.
In other provinces, unsafe PM2.5 levels were reported in Ayutthaya, Chachoengsao, Chiang Rai, Chon Buri, Kanchanaburi, Lampang, Loei, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Nan, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Phayao, Phrae, Prachin Buri, Ratchaburi, Rayong, Sa Kaeo, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Saraburi and Suphan Buri.