Phuket warns of unhealthy air quality in parts of the island

The Tourist Assistance Centre (TAC) warned residents and visitors on 30 September 2026 to take precautions after air-quality readings reached 122-123 in parts of Phuket.

The readings, recorded in Cherng Talay, Karon and Koh Kaew, fall within the Air Quality Index category of “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups”. Elderly people, children and those with respiratory conditions were advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activity unless necessary. The TAC also recommended wearing an N95 mask outdoors.

Data from the Air Quality and Noise Management Division, using Thailand’s Pollution Control Department data, showed sharp fluctuations in particulate pollution in Wichit over the previous day. The station recorded an AQI of 17 at 7am before the reading rose to 155 at about 11pm.

An AQI reading of 151-200 is classified as “Unhealthy”, meaning everyone may begin to experience health effects, while sensitive groups may experience more serious effects. Under that classification, active children and adults, as well as people with respiratory conditions such as asthma, are advised to avoid prolonged outdoor exertion. Others, particularly children, are advised to limit it.

The TAC’s warning was based on IQAir data. Forecasts indicated that conditions were expected to improve as the weekend approached, with clearer air expected.