BANGKOK, Thailand – The Bangkok Air Quality Data Center has reported PM 2.5 dust levels exceeding safety standards, reaching orange alert levels that may impact public health, Dec 24. As of 7:00 a.m., PM 2.5 levels in 67 areas of the capital were recorded between 35.1-54.8 µg/m³, above the safe limit of 37.5 µg/m³.
The average PM 2.5 level in Bangkok was 43.3 µg/m³, with the top five affected districts being:
-Nong Khaem – 52.9 µg/m³
-Thon Buri – 50.8 µg/m³
-Khlong Sam Wa – 50.1 µg/m³
-Samphanthawong – 50.1 µg/m³
-Phra Khanong – 49.5 µg/m³
Key high-risk locations include:
-Nong Khaem (Macha Ruean Road, Phetkasem 81): 54.8 µg/m³
-Bangkok Noi (in front of Bangkok Noi Railway Police Station): 51.8 µg/m³
-Samphanthawong (near the Odeon Circle Gate): 51.1 µg/m³
-Thon Buri (Mahaisawan Intersection bus stop): 51.1 µg/m³
-Khlong Sam Wa (inside the district office): 50.0 µg/m³
The rise in PM 2.5 levels has been attributed to poor air circulation due to meteorological conditions, including surface-level temperature inversion, which limits pollutant dispersion. Authorities predict a slight increase in dust levels between Dec 24 and Jan 1, followed by potential short-term improvement as air circulation shifts from “weak” to “moderate.”
Residents are advised to take precautions, particularly in high-exposure areas.