🔥 Recent Reports of Burning Smell and Haze in Singapore
Residents across Singapore, particularly in the eastern parts, have recently noticed a faint to noticeable burning smell in the air, prompting concerns about returning haze conditions. On January 24, 2026, PM2.5 levels in eastern Singapore reached as high as 162 micrograms per cubic meter at 4:45 PM, entering the unhealthy range (151-200), accompanied by reports of a faint burnt odor. By evening on January 26, the smell became more pronounced in various areas, leading the National Environment Agency (NEA) to issue updates confirming smoke haze from nearby hotspots.
The NEA stated it is 'closely monitoring' the situation, attributing the haze to vegetation fires north of Singapore, specifically hotspots in Johor, Malaysia. Prevailing winds from the north or northeast have transported smoke plumes towards the island nation. Despite the smell, 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings remained in the good to moderate range, between 43 and 56 as of 10 PM on January 26.
Social media platforms buzzed with complaints, including Reddit threads and comments on NEA's Facebook posts, where individuals reported irritated noses, throats, and even headaches. One resident in the east noted, 'The burning smell is giving me a headache.'
Current readings as of January 27 show PSI between 36 and 58, with eastern areas at the higher end (moderate), but overall air quality is manageable.
Understanding Hotspots and Smoke Plumes
Hotspots refer to areas detected by satellites showing elevated thermal radiation, typically from active fires such as vegetation burning or peat soil combustion. In this case, the Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) regional haze map identified hotspots in Pengerang and Punggai in Johor. The Punggai fire, a peat soil blaze, expanded from 5.26 hectares to 12.14 hectares due to dry conditions.
Pengerang's hotspot might stem from industrial heat like the nearby power station, but Punggai's is confirmed as a vegetation fire. These fires produce dense smoke plumes that, under certain wind patterns, drift across borders. Northeast monsoon transition periods often exacerbate such events, with dry weather fueling uncontrolled burns.
- Satellite detection: NASA FIRMS or NOAA satellites spot hotspots via infrared sensors.
- Smoke transport: Winds at 10 km/h from N/NE carried particles to Singapore in hours.
- Peat fires: Smolder underground, hard to extinguish, release massive PM2.5.
Singapore's Air Quality Monitoring System Explained
The PSI, or Pollutant Standards Index, is Singapore's key metric for air quality, sub-indexed for PM2.5 (fine particles), PM10 (coarse), ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). PM2.5 is most critical during haze as it penetrates deep into lungs.
| PSI Band | Range | Health Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Good | 0-50 | Normal activities |
| Moderate | 51-100 | Sensitive groups cautious |
| Unhealthy | 101-200 | Reduce outdoor exposure |
NEA's 16 monitoring stations provide hourly and 24-hour averages via the myENV app and NEA website. On Jan 27, east PSI hit 58 (moderate), west 36 (good).
Causes of Vegetation Fires in Johor
Johor, bordering Singapore, sees frequent fires from open burning for land clearing, agricultural waste disposal, and accidental ignitions amid dry spells. Peatlands, rich in organic matter, ignite easily and burn slowly. Recent dry weather and monsoon transitions have heightened risks. Historically, Johor's fire chief cited uncontrolled open burning as primary cause, destroying hectares annually.
Peak season starts mid-January, lasting 12 weeks, with VIIRS alerts rising. Enforcement challenges and climate change drying peatlands worsen the issue.
Health Risks Associated with Haze Exposure
Haze particles like PM2.5 enter bloodstream, causing respiratory issues, asthma attacks, heart problems, and eye irritation. During 1997 haze, PM10 rise from 50 to 150 ug/m3 increased hospital visits by 12%. Sensitive groups—children, elderly, asthmatics—face higher risks.
- Short-term: Coughing, throat irritation, reduced lung function.
- Long-term: Chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular events.
- Recent: Irritated noses/throats reported Jan 26.
NEA advises staying indoors, using N95 masks outdoors, monitoring health. Hospitals see spikes in respiratory cases during haze.
Historical Haze Episodes in Singapore
Singapore has endured severe haze multiple times: 1997 (PSI 226), 2006 (losses S$100M), 2013, and 2015 (worst, PSI 401, S$1.83B cost or 0.45% GDP). Indonesian peat fires dominated, but Malaysian hotspots like Johor contribute too.
2015 haze disrupted flights, schools, tourism; healthcare costs soared. Lessons led to ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (2002).
Singapore's Proactive Measures Against Haze
NEA deploys water bombing, cloud seeding trials, stockpiles masks. Public campaigns promote indoor stays, air purifiers. Singapore invests in regional diplomacy, bilateral pacts with Malaysia/Indonesia for fire prevention.CNA Haze Update
- Real-time monitoring via satellites/apps.
- Community wardens educate on no-burn policies.
- Research into haze mitigation tech.
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Regional Cooperation and Challenges
Singapore pushes ASEAN haze pact enforcement, but enforcement varies. With Malaysia, joint patrols and data sharing help. Challenges: Sovereignty over peatlands, economic land-clearing incentives. Climate change intensifies dry seasons.
Stakeholders: Governments coordinate; NGOs advocate sustainable farming. Future: Stronger bilateral fire-fighting teams.
Practical Tips for Residents During Haze Alerts
Stay informed via myENV app. Limit outdoor activities when PSI >100. Seal homes, use HEPA filters. Hydrate, avoid strenuous exercise. Schools may shift indoors.
- Check PSI hourly.
- Wear N95 masks.
- Avoid haze-polluted areas.
Economic Implications of Haze Events
Even mild haze reduces productivity, tourism dips, aviation delays. 2015's S$1.83B hit healthcare (S$100M+), aviation, retail. Construction slows; businesses adapt with flexible work.
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Photo by Rafael Sales on Unsplash
Future Outlook and Prevention Strategies
With El Niño risks, 2026 may see more hotspots. Solutions: Peatland restoration, zero-burning laws, satellite early warnings. Singapore leads with tech like AI fire prediction. Outlook: Mild for now, but vigilance key.
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