2025-04-03
This weekend in Thailand, temperatures are reaching new highs of up to 41°C in Chiang Rai. At the same time, air quality is deteriorating in large parts of the country – both Bangkok and Chiang Rai are reaching levels that are unhealthy for sensitive groups, and sometimes even for the general public.
Chiang Rai: Extreme heat and continued unhealthy air
Friday: AQI 108 – Unhealthy air, highest temperature 41°C, lowest 23°C
Saturday: AQI 108 – Unhealthy air, highest temperature 40°C, lowest 24°C
Sunday: AQI 105 – Unhealthy air, highest temperature 38°C, lowest 23°C
The air quality is above the recommended limit for sensitive groups all weekend, and Sunday ends with continued high temperatures - although slightly cooler than Friday.
Read also: Thai authorities warn of extreme heat in April 2025
Bangkok: Hot and increasing air pollution
Friday: AQI 85 – Moderate air, highest temperature 34°C, lowest 28°C
Saturday: AQI 66 – Good air, highest temperature 34°C, lowest 28°C
Sunday: AQI 66 – Good air, highest temperature 34°C, lowest 28°C
Bangkok will have a slightly calmer weekend in terms of temperature compared to the north, but air quality will deteriorate to moderate levels on Friday. Saturday and Sunday, however, look better, with AQI values within the green zone.
Phuket: Rain and cleaner air
Friday: AQI 64 – Good air, highest temperature 28°C, lowest 26°C
Saturday: AQI 63 – Good air, highest temperature 27°C, lowest 25°C
Sunday: AQI 58 – Good air, highest temperature 29°C, lowest 26°C
Phuket is once again experiencing the best air quality of the weekend, but the weekend is marked by rain. Temperatures are lower than on the mainland and air pollution is kept in check by the rainfall.
Summary and recommendations
Chiang Rai: Avoid physical activity outdoors during the day. Air and temperature reach unhealthy levels.
Bangkok: Friday may affect sensitive groups. Saturday and Sunday look better – but the heat will persist.
Phuket: Good air and cooler weather, but rain is expected every day.
What does AQI mean?
The AQI (Air Quality Index) is an index that shows how healthy or unhealthy the air is. It is usually based on the levels of PM2.5 – small particles in the air that are smaller than 2,5 micrometers. The higher the value, the worse the air quality. Values above 100 affect sensitive groups, while levels above 150 can be harmful to everyone.
| AQI | Category | Health advice |
|---|---|---|
| 0–33 | very good | Enjoy outdoor activities |
| 34–66 | Bra | Enjoy outdoor activities |
| 67–99 | Moderate | Sensitive people should plan strenuous activities when the air is better |
| 100–149 | Bad | Sensitive groups: Reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities |
| 150–200 | Very bad | Sensitive groups: Avoid activity. Everyone: Limit strenuous activities |
| 200+ | Dangerous | Avoid all physical activity outdoors. |
Stay informed and protect your health.
Source: Air quality data is taken from IQ Air.
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: ELG21, Pixabay, original image
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