SINGAPORE - Expect the air quality to remain in the moderate range on Friday (Oct 23), but conditions could deteriorate.

The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) for the next 24 hours is expected to be in the high end of the moderate range, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said in its haze situation update on Thursday night.

The 24-hour PSI has been in the moderate range since 3pm on Thursday. Prevailing southeasterly winds had helped to keep away denser haze from surrounding regions.

The reading could enter the low end of the unhealthy range if the denser haze is blown in, the agency said.

Given the forecast, people are advised to reduced prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion, while the elderly, pregnant women and children should minimise outdoor physical exertion.