Thick haze causes overcast sky in Bangkok

10 Sept 13:34 Key points summarised by AI

Bangkok residents woke to a thick haze, a mixture of pollution and fog, creating an overcast sky and severely reducing visibility, obscuring high-rise buildings.
The Meteorological Department explained the smog resulted from accumulated dust particles due to a weakening high-pressure system and static airflow, with cold high-altitude air trapping pollutants at lower levels.
PM2.5 levels, though slightly lower than the previous day, remained high (37.3-81.2µg/m³), particularly in districts like Bang Rak and Lat Krabang, exacerbated by traffic congestion and farm waste burning.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt reported initial improvements due to reduced farm waste burning in surrounding provinces and predicted better air quality over the upcoming weekend.

Torrential downpours forecast nationwide

18 Oct 12:46 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Meteorological Department issued its first severe weather warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall from October 18-25.
The warning covers potential flash floods, forest runoffs, and landslides across southern, eastern, northeastern, and central regions, including greater Bangkok.
The severe weather will unfold in two distinct phases, intensifying and expanding its footprint across various parts of the country.
Authorities urge communities in vulnerable areas to remain on high alert, with disaster response agencies placed on standby to assist residents.