Published date: march 9, 2021

askST: Is the burning smell in Singapore due to haze?

Earlier this week, a burning smell was reported in many parts of Singapore.

The smell is often linked to the annual transboundary haze from regional forest fires.

This time though, experts say that may not be the case.

Q: So what's causing the smell and haze?

Since Feb, there were 30 cases of local vegetation fires. Last week, a Johor hotspot resulted in a burning smell around Singapore. The fires, bringing haziness and a burning smell, are due to ongoing seasonal dry conditions.

Q: Can outdoor activities continue when a burning smell is detected?

Look at NEA’s one-hour PM2.5 readings to decide. When the reading hits Band 2, you’re urged to reduce strenuous outdoor activities for the next hour.

Q: Is the haze returning soon?

Not this month at least. Experts say that although the number of hot spots in Indonesia and Malaysia have increased due to the dry conditions, rain is forecasted for March.

MORE ANSWERS HERE
MORE ANSWERS HERE

SOURCE: ST REPORT BY Shabana Begum. ST PHOTOS by kevin lim, lim yaohui, YONG LI XUAN, CHONG JUN LIANG, KUA CHEE SIONG. Graphics by straits times graphics. ST video BY TIMOTHY GOH, VIDEOs by thestar/youtube.

PRODUCED BY: JO-ANN QUAH

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