Haze in northern Thailand: due to the influence of El Nino?

Blind smoke covering northern Thailand for nearly two weeks may be due to the impact of weather changes, under the influence of El Nino. Experts warn that this phenomenon can cause long-term health problems.

While the authorities in Chiang Mai tourist hot spot called for farmers to stop burning straw on the field and even banned the sale of barbecue, haze still covered the area. Experts say unusual weather seems to be the main cause of this phenomenon.

Blind smoke, caused by rice straw farmers and by fires in northern Thailand and elsewhere in Laos and Myanmar, has nearly choked the eight provinces of northern Thailand for nearly two weeks, affecting about 5 million people.

Environmental activist Montree Chantawong said the haze this time may be the result of an unusually long winter in northern Thailand. According to him, high pressure combined with cold weather may have prevented smoke from rising and melting into the air.'Usually in March, the temperature is higher and the smoke will gradually fade,' he said.

Chiang Mai International Airport sinks in the haze. Experts say cold winters may have kept the haze near the ground and prevented them from dissipating into the air (Photo: AFP).

Earlier this week, air pollution in Chiang Mai was three times higher than the level of unhealthy health, prompting the government to deliver hundreds of thousands of masks to people and recommend children and the elderly to stay indoors. According to health officials, air quality has now improved but still at a high level of danger.

Steve Thompson, president of Images Asia - Edesk environmental group , said the El Nino phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean may have caused unusual temperatures in northern Thailand.

WALL VY