CityNews – Another day of severe smog and very low visibility finds official pollution levels (PM10) measuring at 161, according to Chiang Mai Municipality.
Readings measured at 140 this morning, but have risen to 161 this afternoon. The Municipality told CityNews that the cause for the increase was most probably due to burning in the local area.
However, today is not the worst Chiang Mai has seen this year. Levels reached 181 on March 2.
The EPA says that healthy PM10 readings should not exceed 50. Under 100 is considered moderate, under 150 is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, and anything over 150 is unhealthy for all groups, meaning that the current readings qualify as a health hazard.
To report illegal burning, call
1. Chiang Mai Department of National Parks: 053-276-100
2. The Office of Environmental Protection: 053-112-725