Air Pollution Forecast: PM2.5 Levels Expected to Rise Across Thailand from 18 to 24 Jan 2026, Except in the South

The Air Pollution Communication Center reported on 17 Jan 2026 that PM2.5 levels exceeded standards in 43 provinces. The forecast for 18-24 Jan 2026 indicates rising PM2.5 levels across Thailand, except in the southern region.

On 17 Jan 2026, at 07:00, the Air Pollution Communication Center released air quality monitoring results, summarized as follows.

Overall, PM2.5 levels exceeded standards in Pathum Thani, Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Samut Prakan, Lamphun, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Tak, Phichit, Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Lopburi, Saraburi, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Nong Khai, Loei, Udon Thani, Nakhon Phanom, Nong Bua Lamphu, Mukdahan, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Amnat Charoen, Chaiyaphum, Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, and Surin provinces.

• In the North, eight locations exceeded standards, with PM2.5 levels ranging from 7.7 to 67.1 micrograms per cubic meter.
• Most areas in the Northeast exceeded standards, with measurements between 22.5 and 79.7 micrograms per cubic meter.
• Most areas in the Central and Western regions exceeded standards, with PM2.5 levels from 19.0 to 74.7 micrograms per cubic meter.
• In the East, five locations exceeded standards, with levels between 19.1 and 60.3 micrograms per cubic meter.
• The South showed overall good air quality, with PM2.5 levels ranging from 14.7 to 24.3 micrograms per cubic meter.
• In Bangkok and its metropolitan area, monitoring stations operated by the Pollution Control Department in cooperation with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration recorded PM2.5 levels exceeding standards at 38 locations, ranging from 24.3 to 62.0 micrograms per cubic meter.

The public is advised to monitor their health, reduce time spent in outdoor activities, or use protective equipment. Those with special health concerns should limit outdoor exposure and use protective gear. Anyone experiencing symptoms should consult a doctor. Residents in affected areas (red zones) are urged to avoid outdoor activities or use protection and seek medical advice if symptoms occur.

. . . The seven-day PM2.5 forecast from 18 to 24 January 2026 indicates that

• PM2.5 levels in Bangkok and the metropolitan area are expected to rise between 18 and 20 Jan 2026, with some areas requiring continued monitoring.
• In the Central and Western regions, PM2.5 levels are forecasted to increase between 19 and 24 Jan 2026, with some areas still needing close observation.
• Seventeen provinces in the North are expected to see rising PM2.5 levels from 18 to 24 Jan 2026, with ongoing monitoring advised for certain areas.
• The Northeast region is forecasted to experience increased PM2.5 levels between 18 and 22 Jan 2026, requiring vigilance in some locations.
• The East is predicted to have rising PM2.5 levels from 18 to 22 Jan 2026, with some areas still warranting monitoring.
• The South continues to maintain good air quality.