Is the air quality good in Singapore?
As of October 9, 2026, at 2:30 PM SGT (GMT+8), air quality in Singapore has reached "very unhealthy" levels, with AQI at 209, driven by PM2.5 and PM10 as co-dominant pollutants.
This marks the first time since October 2023 that Singapore's AQI has reached unhealthy levels due to haze. Singapore's annual average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 11.9 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 50, classified as "good," making today's readings dramatically above the city's typical baseline.
For real-time conditions, see Singapore's air quality map.
Singapore, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of October 9, 2026, at 2:30 PM (local time). Source: IQAir.
Air quality map of Singapore, as of October 9, 2026, at 2:30 PM (local time). Source: IQAir.
When will the air quality improve in Singapore?
The hourly forecast indicates that Singapore's AQI could decline significantly by early Saturday morning as winds shift from southerly to easterly, potentially reducing smoke transport from Indonesian fire zones. However, haze could persist through October and November as dry conditions and strong El Niño conditions continue to increase wildfire risks.
Hourly air quality forecast for Singapore, as of October 9, 2026, at 2:30 PM (local time). Source: IQAir.
What is causing poor air quality in Singapore?
Smoke from forest and peatland fires in Indonesia, particularly in Sumatra and Kalimantan, is the primary cause of Singapore's haze. Dry weather and strong El Niño conditions have increased wildfire risks, while prevailing winds carry smoke across the region toward Singapore. Elevated carbon monoxide (CO) levels are also consistent with combustion-related pollution from biomass burning.
How can I protect myself from poor air quality?
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.
