Reader Submission: In the north of Thailand, an ineradicable stubborn “fire virus” is raging.
In Thailand, the Corona virus strikes heavily every day. Followed by various news media. But in Northern Thailand there is also a raging "fire virus" that has been created and maintained by the Thais themselves.
Smog in Thailand: 3.238 fires, mostly in the north
1.334 fires were counted in northern Thailand last Saturday. Across the country, 3.238 fires have been identified using satellite imagery provided by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency.
Smog and particulate matter in the North increased again
Air pollution in the north of Thailand rose sharply again at the beginning of this week. In the district of Muang (Chiang Rai), a concentration of 105 mcg of PM 2,5 dust particles was measured in the air.
Air quality in northern Thailand still very poor
The smog in the North has lasted almost a week and shows no improvement. Yesterday, the concentration of PM 2,5 in particulate matter varied between 76 and 202 mcg, well above the safety limit of 50 mcg that the PCD adheres to.
Air pollution in the northern provinces of Lampang and Phayao rose to dangerous levels yesterday due to forest fires. The PM10 level ranges from 81 to 104 micrograms per cubic meter of air.
The north of Thailand is again affected by smog from forest fires in Myanmar. The Pollution Control Department (PCD) will ask the Myanmar government for help in combating the smog because the forest fires are frequent in Myanmar. The wildfires are difficult to fight due to the mountainous terrain.
The residents of the Muang district in Lampang province have been advised to wear a face mask to protect themselves against the annual smog nuisance. This is caused by the forest fires at Doi Phra Bath.
Fire and smog control in Chang Mai
A new center has been opened in Chiang Mai to fight fires and smog development from there. The center aims to tackle the forest fires and fires in the natural parks. In addition, the center wants cooperation at various levels and stakeholders, such as villages, districts and the province.
Large forest fire on Doi Suthep
As expected with the drought and high temperatures in Thailand, several forest fires are being reported on social media.
Northern Thailand is again struggling with smog
Just like in previous years, the North of Thailand has to deal with smog again. In four provinces, the concentration of particulate matter has risen far above the safety level for humans and animals. In short, a danger to the health of the residents.