As of early December 2025, Thailand is once again facing a severe air pollution episode, driven primarily by fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Both Bangkok and the popular tourist city of Pattaya are experiencing hazy skies and unhealthy air quality levels.
Bangkok
According to the Bangkok Air Quality Information Center (updated December 2–3, 2025), air quality across the capital is in the orange zone (“starting to affect health”). As of 7:00 a.m. on December 2, PM2.5 levels exceeded Thailand’s 24-hour standard (37.5 µg/m³) in all 50 districts, with city-wide averages ranging from 40–55 µg/m³. Some roadside stations in areas like Din Daeng, Wang Thonglang, and along Rama IV Road recorded peaks above 70–90 µg/m³. These levels are up to 10 times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual guideline (5 µg/m³). Light winds and temperature inversion are trapping pollutants, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration forecasts that poor air quality will persist at least through December 4–5.
Pattaya (Chonburi Province)
The situation in Pattaya is slightly better but still concerning. Real-time data from the Pollution Control Department’s Air4Thai system (as of December 2–3, 2025) show PM2.5 concentrations in central and north Pattaya ranging from 30–48 µg/m³, placing the city in the **yellow to orange** category (moderate to starting to affect health). Beach Road and Second Road areas are seeing the highest readings due to heavy traffic and tourist boats.
Health Impact and Recommendations
Health authorities warn that prolonged exposure can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, eye irritation, and worsening of asthma or heart conditions, especially in children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing illnesses. The Public Health Ministry advises:
– Wearing N95 or equivalent masks outdoors
– Limiting strenuous outdoor activities, especially in the morning and late afternoon
– Using air purifiers indoors
– Monitoring real-time data via the Air4Thai app or website
Government Measures
Bangkok has imposed temporary restrictions on diesel trucks entering the city, increased street cleaning, and is considering remote work policies for government offices and potential school closures if levels remain high. Cloud-seeding operations to induce rain are also under discussion.
For the latest updates, residents and visitors are encouraged to check official sources:
– Bangkok Air Quality: air.bangkok.go.th
– National data: air4thai.pcd.go.th
The winter pollution season typically lasts until February–March, so continued vigilance is recommended in both cities.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
