Expect Saturday's hazy conditions to continue on Sunday; may get worse depending on winds

The slightly hazy situation near Marina Bay Sands on Saturday (Sept 26) at about 3.30pm. ST PHOTO: LAU FOOK KONG

SINGAPORE - After days of poor air quality, and the closure of primary and secondary schools on Friday, the island got some relief as the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) took a dip to a more tolerable 24-hr reading ranging between 85 and 102 on Saturday.

The reading is in the high-end of the moderate range and the low-end of the unhealthy range of 101 to 200.

Such conditions are expected to continue for the rest of the day.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) also said in its evening update on Saturday that hazy conditions are also expected on Sunday. It could get worse however if denser haze is blown in by the unfavourable winds.

Its statement said: "The 24-hr PSI for the next 24 hours is expected to be in the high end of the moderate range and the low end of the unhealthy range, and may enter into the mid-section of the unhealthy range if denser haze is blown in."

It added that thundery showers are also expected in the late morning and early afternoon on Sunday.

The health impact of the haze depends on a person's health status, the PSI level, and the length and intensity of outdoor activity. The NEA recommends that normal activities be carried out when the 24-hour PSI is in the moderate range.

When the 24-hour index hits the unhealthy band, healthy people should reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion, while the elderly, pregnant women and children should minimise such exertion.

Those with chronic lung or heart diseases should avoid such activities completely.

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