ຂປລ
On April 20, 2026, the Department of Environment under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry reported that PM2.5 levels across parts of northern and central Laos have exceeded the national safety standard of 50 µg/m³ over a 24-hour period, posing serious health risks to the public.
(KPL) On April 20, 2026, the Department of Environment under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry reported that PM2.5 levels across parts of northern and central Laos have exceeded the national safety standard of 50 µg/m³ over a 24-hour period, posing serious health risks to the public.
High-Risk Areas
Several districts have recorded dangerously high PM2.5 concentrations:
Pak Lay District: 239 µg/m³
Luang Prabang: 173 µg/m³
Viengthong District: 144 µg/m³
Xay District: 140 µg/m³
Areas Beginning to Affect Health
Air quality is also reaching concerning levels in:
Paek District
Anouvong District
Vang Vieng
Luang Namtha
In Vientiane, PM2.5 levels are currently between 40–44 µg/m³, classified as moderate but still requiring caution.
Health Recommendations
Authorities urge the public to take the following precautions:
1. Personal Protection
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities and wear an N95 mask when outside.
2. Stop Open Burning
Refrain from burning household waste, agricultural residues, or clearing land by fire.
3. Stay Informed
Follow daily updates through official channels, including the “Lao Agriculture News” Facebook page.
Officials warn that continued exposure to high levels of fine particulate matter can increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
KPL
