On 14/1, the Royal Thai Department of Agricultural Aviation and Rainmaking (DRRAA) intensified emergency response measures against a thick layer of fine dust blanketing Bangkok and its adjacent areas. The department mobilized multiple aircraft from key air bases to undertake urgent cloud seeding operations.

In the south of Bangkok, 4 planes from Hua Hin base dispersed dry ice at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters over Ratchaburi and Samut Songkhram. To the east, ba planes from Rayong base operated in the area stretching from Prachin Buri to Nakhon Ratchasima. Cloud seeding operations in the northeast commenced on 15/1 in Khon Kaen.

Royal Thai rainmaking plane preparing for its mission on 14/1. *Photo: Facebook/Drraa.pr*

Rachen Silparaya, head of the DRRAA, reported that fine dust concentrations have exceeded the national safety threshold of 37,5 µg/m³. Air monitoring stations currently indicate orange and red alerts for pollution levels in Bangkok and neighboring provinces, signifying conditions ranging from "health affecting" to "hazardous".

Thai officials identified poor air circulation as a primary cause of the current pollution, trapping fine dust near the ground. Agricultural burning, both within and outside Thailand, further exacerbates the pollution levels.

Health officials advised residents, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities and avoid strenuous exercise. They also recommended wearing high-filtration masks when outside.

Authorities anticipate the dry ice dispersal will induce rain, washing away airborne fine dust. If air quality does not significantly improve in the coming days, the Thai government plans to intensify night-time cloud seeding flights.

*Duc Trung (Source: Nation, Bangkok Post, Khaosod)*