Cambodia's Field Burning Causes PM 2.5 Dust to Drift into Thailand, Shrouding Nam Yuen District

Cambodian field burning throughout the week has caused PM 2.5 dust to drift into Thailand, creating hazy skies across Nam Yuen District. On February 7th, reporters noted that several areas in Nam Yuen, Ubon Ratchathani province were covered in smoke and PM 2.5 dust, including the border areas of Nam Khun District. This is a result of grass and wood debris burning in Chomkrasane District, Preah Vihear Province, adjacent to Chong An Ma area in Nam Yuen. The burning has begun to impact respiratory systems and trigger allergic reactions in some patients. Local agricultural areas mostly consist of cassava plantations with no burning, and Ubon Ratchathani province has banned burning to address air pollution from February 1st to March 31st. Local youth reported that the area's reservoir, previously fresh and breathable, is now filled with PM 2.5 dust.