Haze in Thai South relieves

THAILAND, August 15 (TNA) - Haze in the Thai South, caused by impacts from forest fires on Indonesia's Sumatra Island and those from Kuan Kreng Peat Swamp Forest in southern Nakhon Si Thammarat province, has now relieved, after blanketing several areas in the southern Thai region for 4-5 days, thanks to continual downpours during the same period. Thai authorities concerned have, however, closely kept monitoring the smog situation, as the current southwest monsoon wind will probably bring with it a new spate of smog to the Thai South from the Indonesian Sumatra Island, where up to 428 wildfires-borne hot spots have remained. Local people of vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly and allergic patients have, therefore, been advised to follow up latest developments and avoid their outdoor activities until the smog situation returns to normal. Meanwhile, the Pollution Control Department's air quality monitoring stations throughout the southern Thai region reported that dust particles have remained at normal levels and should not affect the public health in the affected areas. (TNA)