BANGKOK, March 7 (Bernama) -- Thailand's Department of Disease Control (DDC) is closely monitoring the haze situation and people's health in the northern region, Thai News Agency (TNA) reported.

The Department Director-General Jessada Chokedamrongsuk said that since Thailand was already entering the summer season, which caused the weather to become more hot and dry and could lead to easier forest fire breakouts as local residents burn wastes in the open.

Dr Jessada pointed out that haze is one of the major problems in the northern region that must be continuously monitoried, particularly in the upper northern area.

Data gathered from the Disease Control Office 1 of Chiang Mai province revealed that on March 6, the average haze level in the north had exceeded the safety standard limit of 120 microgramme per cubic metres in two locations in Lampang province, with levels of PM10 measured at 158 and 169 microgrammes per cubic metre, respectively.

Meanwhile, many provinces in the north are starting to see the spread of haze in some areas, where risks areas include all the provincial seats of Lamphun, Mae Hong Sorn, Payao and Prae provinces.

Dr Jessada noted that the level of PM10 higher than the standard level of 120 microgrammes per cubic metre could affect the local people's health, advising the public not to carry out any outdoor activities for long period of time, as well as to ensure that all doors and windows are closed to prevent the haze from entering.

He said that people in risk groups, such as those with heart disease, stroke, lung disease, asthma, allergies, as well as the elderly, children, and pregnant women should wear face masks while outdoors.

-- BERNAMA