PM2.5 Pollution Escalates for Fifth Consecutive Day Due to Agricultural Fires

NAKHON RATCHASIMA — On February 7, 2026, PM2.5 pollution across northeastern Thailand continued to worsen for a fifth straight day as authorities reported ongoing illegal agricultural burning. Mr. Montri Kiatphaophan, regional office director, confirmed that burning has been detected in four provinces: Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Buri Ram, and Surin, primarily to clear land for new planting cycles. Air quality data from the Air4Thai application showed pollution levels ranging from good to potentially health-affecting. In Nakhon Ratchasima, air quality remained in the moderate category, with PM2.5 levels at 34.1 micrograms per cubic metre, still below the safety threshold. Satellite analysis from GISTDA detected nine hotspots in Nakhon Ratchasima on February 6, mostly in agricultural areas. Provincial authorities have instructed district officials to remain alert and investigate burning incidents, with potential legal prosecution for offenders. From January 1-31, 2026, nationwide burned areas reached 3,616 square kilometers, with hotspots concentrated primarily in central and northeastern regions. The majority of burned land was agricultural, followed by land reform areas, national reserved forests, and other zones.