Why is Singapore’s haze and air quality trending today?
Haze from forest and peat fires in neighboring countries has pushed Singapore’s PSI into the unhealthy range since early October, leading to the cancellation of several running events. The National Environment Agency is closely tracking fire hotspots and may consider action under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, though no specific companies have been named yet.
What happened
- Oct 7, 07:00 UTC
PSI reached unhealthy levels (101‑200) across all regions, prompting the Chill Movement Run Club to cancel its weekly run [2]
- Oct 9, 14:00 UTC
Central Singapore recorded a PSI of 186, the highest of 2026, as haze persisted [2]
- Oct 12, 06:30 UTC
NEA said it is closely monitoring haze hotspots and gathering information on fire sources, but gave no detail on any legal action under the Act [1]
What you need to know
Check the daily PSI on the NEA website before planning outdoor activities.
When PSI is 101‑200, reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor exertion, especially for vulnerable groups.
Event organisers are cancelling runs and outdoor fitness sessions due to the haze.
The Transboundary Haze Pollution Act allows Singapore to pursue legal action against companies causing haze, though no fines have been imposed yet.
It is not yet confirmed which, if any, companies will face legal action under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act for the current haze episode.
Background
Singapore’s haze is caused by forest and peatland fires in neighboring countries, which release fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that raises the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI). The PSI has been in the unhealthy range across the island since 5 Oct, with peaks above 180 in central Singapore.
The Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, effective from September 2014, enables Singapore to sue or fine entities responsible for haze, even if the activities occur overseas. Penalties can reach S$100,000 per day, capped at S$2 million, but enforcement is difficult and no fines have been issued to date.
In response to the current haze, the NEA is tracking fire hotspots and investigating four Indonesian companies linked to past incidents, while local running clubs and event organisers are cancelling activities to protect public health.
Questions people ask
What does a PSI reading of 150 mean for me?
A PSI of 150 falls in the unhealthy range; people should limit prolonged outdoor activity and especially avoid strenuous exercise.
Can Singapore punish companies that cause the haze?
Yes, under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, companies can be fined or sued, but no penalties have been imposed yet and investigations can take years.
Why are many running events being cancelled?
Because the haze has pushed PSI into unhealthy levels, making outdoor exercise risky for participants, especially vulnerable groups.
Where this came from
[1] channelnewsasia.com
NEA tracking haze hotspots and sources as earlier investigations under Transboundary Haze Pollution Act continue
Preview image from channelnewsasia.com
[2] straitstimes.com
At least five races and running club events cancelled due to haze in Singapore
Preview image from straitstimes.com
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