Haze Watch - 18 January 2010

The report is compiled by the ASEAN Secretariat based on feedback from relevant ASEAN Member Countries and will be updated on a regular basis.

Report of Current Situation

Significant hotspot activities continue to be detected in Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand due to persistent dry conditions. In particular, clusters of hotspots were detected in northern Cambodia.

In Thailand, on 18 January 2010, air quality index (AQI) reading recorded good and moderate status throughout the country except for Saraburi, Ayutthaya and Samut Prakarn where unhealthy level was recorded.

In the period of 11 January to 17 January 2010, most hotspots were detected in Cambodia (1259) followed by Thailand (336). Most hotspots in Cambodia were detected on 11 January 2010 (380).

Based on FDRS reading, all fine fuels will easily ignite, potentially resulting in many fires in Thailand, Lao PDR, Viet Nam, Peninsular Malaysia, parts of Sumatra and parts of Borneo. In mixed fuels, severe drought conditions and high-intensity fires can occur in most parts of Thailand and parts of Viet Nam. In mixed fuels, both moderate- and high-intensity fires can be very common in parts of Viet Nam. In mixed fuels, moderate intensity fires can occur in Peninsular Malaysia, parts of Sumatra and parts of Borneo. Peat areas will produce widespread and severe haze in Thailand, Lao PDR, most parts of Viet Nam. Smoldering in drained peat areas is possible in Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo.

Resources Mobilised and Actions Taken

In Thailand, action taken under Fire Suppression Mobilisation Plan level 1 (situation under control).