SINGAPORE — The Singapore Formula One race is likely to be shrouded in hazy skies over the weekend as hotspot activities continue in southern Sumatra.  

The National Environment Agency (NEA), in a joint media briefing with the Health and Manpower ministries on Friday (Sept 20), said that the dry weather set to persist over southern Sumatra, coupled with gradually weakening prevailing winds forecast to blow from the south-east or south, will bring a heavier bout of haze over the next two days. 

The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading may range between the high end of the “moderate” range and the low end of the “unhealthy” range.

NEA added that the longer term forecast, however, was better, with showers expected over southern Sumatra towards the end of the month likely to bring some relief to the haze situation. 

Dr Lyn James, director of the Health Ministry's epidemiology and disease control division, stressed that the public should minimise outdoor activities, especially once the PSI level reaches the “unhealthy” range.

She added that while N95 masks are not required for indoor activities or short exposure to the haze such as commuting from home to school or a workplace, those who spend several hours outdoors may want to wear them to reduce exposure.

She cautioned, however, that some individuals may experience difficulty breathing at rest when they wear the masks as the airflow is limited. 

These individuals should consult a doctor on whether they should continue with the use of the mask. 

She said that individuals who are not feeling well, especially the elderly, pregnant women and children, or those with chronic heart or lung conditions, should seek medical attention.

At the briefing, NEA also highlighted that satellite images of hotspots found on its website are not all land or forest fires as the satellites detect hotspots through thermal temperatures.

This means similar thermal temperatures from highly reflective surfaces, such as a hot zinc roof or even gas flares, may also be marked as hotspots.