Asst Prof Wang Jingyu explains regional conditions driving Singapore’s haze

Singapore’s deteriorating air quality ahead of the 2026 Formula One Singapore Grand Prix has drawn attention to the regional climatic conditions intensifying wildfires and haze across Southeast Asia.

Speaking to The Guardian, Assistant Professor Wang Jingyu from the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, explained that a “super” El Niño has worsened dry conditions and contributed to fires in parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan.

According to Asst Prof Wang, rainfall across the region has been approximately 80 per cent below normal since June, fuelling the most intense fire season in more than a decade. Smoke from the fires has drifted towards Singapore, where air quality was classified as unhealthy by the National Environment Agency.

The haze adds another environmental challenge to the Singapore Grand Prix, which is already considered one of the most demanding races on the Formula One calendar because of its high humidity and physically challenging street circuit.

Race organisers said they would make N95 masks available if required and work with the relevant agencies should the haze create visibility, public health or operational concerns. The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile also has contingency measures in place if conditions worsen, although no disruption to the race schedule is currently expected.

Asst Prof Wang noted that short-term exposure to haze would generally cause mild irritation among healthy individuals, including dry or sore throats, coughing and sneezing. However, vulnerable groups such as children, older adults and pregnant women face greater risks. Haze may also aggravate existing conditions such as asthma or trigger acute bronchitis.

Spectators could face greater exposure because they may spend several hours outdoors at the circuit, concerts and surrounding activities. Other experts interviewed for the report also cautioned that prolonged exposure to polluted air could affect physical and cognitive performance.

Forecast thundery showers may provide temporary relief by reducing airborne pollutants. However, the situation illustrates how regional climate conditions and transboundary haze can affect public health and major outdoor events in Singapore.

Read the original article from The Guardian here.