Singapore Haze: PSI Hits 2026 High of 170
Air quality in Singapore has reached its worst level this year, with the central region recording a 24-hour PSI reading of 170 on October 9, 2026.
Quick facts
- The central region recorded a 24-hour PSI of 170 on October 9, 2026.
- Air quality is classified as unhealthy when the PSI range is 101 to 200.
- The previous 2026 high for the central region was 167, recorded on September 29.
Why it matters
The return of transboundary haze is a recurring environmental challenge for Singapore, often correlated with land clearing practices in neighboring Indonesia during dry seasons. While the current PSI levels are the highest for 2026, they remain below the hazardous levels seen in past severe haze years. The impact on public health and large-scale events remains a primary concern for local authorities.
Air quality across Singapore dropped to its poorest level of the year on October 9, 2026, as the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached 170 in the central region. This reading marks a new high for 2026, surpassing the previous record of 167 set on September 29.
What do the current PSI readings show?
As of 9am on October 9, the 24-hour PSI readings were measured across the island:
- Central: 170
- West: 164
- South: 150
- East: 143
- North: 115
The National Environment Agency (NEA) classifies PSI readings between 101 and 200 as unhealthy. While readings briefly dipped into the moderate range in some areas between 6pm on October 8 and 1am on October 9, all regions returned to the unhealthy range by 2am.
Why this is trending in Singapore
Residents are searching for current haze updates as the worsening air quality directly impacts daily routines and outdoor activities across the island. The NEA advises that healthy individuals should reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical activities while air quality remains in the unhealthy range.
What is causing the haze?
According to the National Environment Agency, the current haze is linked to recent dry conditions in the region and hotspots identified over parts of Indonesia. This is the first time since 2023 that Singapore's air quality has entered the unhealthy range for a sustained period, with the current event beginning in early September.
What is confirmed and what is not
It is confirmed that PSI levels are currently in the unhealthy range and that authorities have issued advisories regarding outdoor activity. It is not confirmed how long the current weather patterns will persist or how much further the PSI may fluctuate in the coming days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current PSI in Singapore?
As of 9am on October 9, 2026, the 24-hour PSI reached a high of 170 in the central region. Other areas recorded levels between 115 and 164, all falling within the unhealthy range.
What does a PSI of 170 mean?
A PSI reading between 101 and 200 is classified by the National Environment Agency as unhealthy. During this time, the agency recommends that healthy individuals reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical activities.
Why is there haze in Singapore?
The National Environment Agency attributes the current haze to dry weather conditions in the region and hotspots detected over parts of Indonesia, which have persisted since early September 2026.
Are schools in Singapore affected by the haze?
Schools have been instructed to reduce prolonged outdoor activities. Some institutions have also been provided with air purifiers for classroom use to help manage the impact of the air quality on students.
Is the air quality expected to improve?
The duration of the current haze event is not confirmed. PSI readings have fluctuated between moderate and unhealthy ranges over the past 24 hours, and official updates from the National Environment Agency are being issued regularly.
What is the PM2.5 level?
On the morning of October 9, 2026, PM2.5 readings were elevated across all regions. The highest readings were in the south and central regions at 137, while the north recorded 84.
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- Oct 9, 2026 at 7:27 AM
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