The wildfire situation in Chiang Mai is becoming increasingly critical, with authorities reporting a sharp rise in fire hotspots across the province.
The Chiang Mai Forest Fire, Haze and PM2.5 Prevention and Mitigation Command Centre reported that 132 hotspots from forest fires were detected today across 10 districts. The hardest-hit area was Doi Tao district, where more than 84 fire hotspots were recorded.
To support firefighting operations, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation deployed a KA-32 helicopter, along with helicopter TS 5120 from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, to conduct aerial water drops throughout the day. The aircraft assisted ground teams battling the fires amid intense heat.
The large number of wildfire hotspots has significantly worsened air quality in Chiang Mai, with the city now blanketed in a thick haze. From the city centre, Doi Suthep has become increasingly faint, while road visibility has also declined.
The Climate Change Data Centre at Chiang Mai University reported that hourly PM2.5 levels reached their highest at Chiang Dao district, measuring 132 micrograms per cubic metre. Meanwhile, readings at Nakornping Hospital in Mae Rim district reached 103 micrograms per cubic metre.
The readings mark the first time PM2.5 levels have exceeded 100 micrograms per cubic metre during this year’s haze season.
