Air pollution in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, has surged to among the worst levels globally, prompting the provincial governor to issue emergency restrictions and preventive measures on Thursday (March 5).

According to the global air-quality monitoring website IQAir, Chiang Mai ranked eighth among the world’s most polluted cities. In some areas, PM2.5 concentrations reached as high as 128 micrograms per cubic meter, several times above safe levels, local media outlet Chiang Mai News reported.

The Northern Meteorological and Hydrological Department forecasts that between March 5 and March 7, air circulation will remain limited and wind speeds slow, conditions likely to worsen the accumulation of particulate matter. Authorities have therefore instructed residents to avoid all forms of open burning in outdoor areas.

Officials have also ordered increased road cleaning and water spraying operations to help suppress dust and raise humidity levels in densely populated areas.

District-level emergency commanders have been instructed to review fire-prevention and control measures, while prioritizing the safety of personnel and volunteers involved in wildfire-fighting operations.

The dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Chiang Mai University warned that the current situation poses a serious threat to public health. At Suan Dok Hospital, air filtration systems have been fully installed in patient wards and staff working areas as part of emergency preparedness measures.

The severe air pollution, which occurs annually due to forest fires and agricultural burning, has intensified this year and is expected to persist from March through the end of April, authorities said.

Health officials are urging residents to wear protective masks when going outdoors, avoid outdoor physical activities, and remain indoors as much as possible.

The crisis is also expected to have significant impacts on both public health and the local tourism industry.

Photo: Sai Harn Lin / SHAN