PM2.5 readings in parts of Greater Bangkok as high as 79, above the safe level of 50

The levels of fine PM2.5 dust particles exceed safety standards at 37 air-quality monitoring stations in Bangkok and surrounding provinces on Saturday morning. (Bangkok Post file photo)

Bangkok and nearby provinces remained blanketed in smog, with PM2.5 dust exceeding safe levels at 37 air-quality monitoring stations on Saturday morning.

The Pollution Control Department (PCD) said hazardous particle levels in the air in Greater Bangkok ranged between 39 and 79 microgrammes per cubic metre in the morning, with the results in 37 areas exceeding the safety standard of 50 microgrammes per cubic metre.

The unhealthy smog on Saturday worsened in most areas of the capital from Friday, when the levels were 28-55mcg/cm, with fine dust exceeding safe levels at 10 monitoring stations.

The affected areas in Bangkok on Saturday include parts of Hiranrujee in Thon Buri district, Kanchanaphisek Road in Bang Khun Thian district, Bang Na district, Din Daeng area of Din Daeng district, Rama IV Road in Pathumwan district, Intharapitak Road in Thon Buri, Lat Phrao Road in Wang Thong Lang district, Din Daeng Road in Din Daeng district and the Phlab Phla area in Wang Thong Lang district.

Among the affected areas in surrounding provinces were parts of Bang Kruai district and tambon Bang Phud in Pak Kret district of Nonthaburi, tambon Khlong Nueng in Khlong Luang district of Pathum Thani, tambon Song Khanong in Phra Pradaeng district and tambon Pak Nam in Muang district of Samut Prakan, and tambon Om Noi in Krathum Baen district of Samut Sakhon.

The department advised people to avoid outdoor activities and closely monitor air quality announcements.