Environmental
Heatwave and PM2.5 pollution peak in northern Thailand
Rising heat and agricultural fires drive a spike in hotspots and fine particulate pollution across northern Thai provinces, affecting air quality and public health.
Recent days have seen a marked escalation in heat and air pollution in northern Thailand, as a surge of hotspots from agricultural and forest fires has boosted PM2.5 levels. The five most affected provinces—Lampang, Phrae, Lamphun, Chiang Mai, and Tak—recorded nearly 1,967 hotspots, more than three-quarters of which occurred in forest areas. Authorities have enforced open‑burning bans and urged residents to limit outdoor activity and use masks. The Pollution Control Department notes that a prior absence of hotspots allowed dry vegetation to accumulate, fueling the current fire spike. Health advisories warn vulnerable groups of increased respiratory and cardiovascular risks during the heatwave.
- Status
- active
- Location
- Northern Thailand (Lampang, Phrae, Lamphun, Chiang Mai, Tak)
- Date added
- 2026-03-31 15:32 UTC
- Added by
- bodglobalapdrt
- Last updated
- 2026-03-31 15:32 UTC
- Source
- The Nation Thailand
- Connected threats
- Not provided