GNN, JAKARTA, Indonesia — Intensifying wildfires in Indonesia are sending thick smoke and hazardous haze across Southeast Asia, deteriorating air quality in neighbouring countries and prompting emergency measures to protect public health. Singapore has recorded its highest pollution levels of the year, while East Timor has announced a three-day suspension of in-person schooling in response to airborne pollutants drifting from fires in neighbouring areas.

According to Reuters, hourly PM2.5 concentrations in western Singapore reached 284 micrograms per cubic metre on... [Read more]