The amount of PM2.5 dust in the atmosphere in 52 areas in Bangkok and its suburbs today (Friday) exceeds safety standards and may have adverse health effects, with the likelihood that conditions will deteriorate until March 3rd.

The Pollution Control Department reported today that PM2.5 was measured at between 43 and 83 microns and a new cold front from China is approaching, which will worsen the air pollution.

Areas in Bangkok and its surroundings which were found to have excessive PM2.5 today include main roads and their adjacent areas in Thung Song Hong sub-district of Lak Si, Lat Phra, Bang Sue, Phra Nakhon, Thung Khru, Taling Chan, Don Mueang, Chatuchak, Bang Na, Pathumwan, Din Daeng and Bang Khun Thian districts.
Excessive levels of PM2.5 were also detected in:

• Ang Thong
• Chachoengsao
• Chiang Mai
• Chiang Rai
• Kamphaeng Phet
• Lampang
• Lamphun
• Loei
• Nakhon Phanom
• Nakhon Sawan
• Nan Phayao
• Nonthaburi
• Pathum Thani
• Phichit Phetchabun
• Phitsanuloke
• Phrae
• Prachin Buri
• Ratchaburi
• Rayong
• Sa Kaeo
• Samut Prakan
• Samut Sakhon
• Samut Songkhram
• Saraburi
• Sing Buri
• Sukhothai
• Suphan Buri
• Trat
• Ubon Ratchathani
• Uthai Thani
• Uttaradit

In northern provinces, PM2.5 was measured at 34-122 microns, 28-61 microns in three areas in the north-east, 37-76 microns in most central and western provinces and 35-70 microns in seven eastern areas. Good air quality prevails in southern provinces, with the PM2.5 measured at between 12 and 30 microns.