PSI Reached 354 at 6pm on 28th September 2015

Like the last few days, the air still smelled foul and haze was thick. At noon, it got worse at PSI 250 and when it reached around 6 pm, the PSI already shot up to 345. Felt the world almost come to an end. The sky looked so gloomy, air was stale and dust everywhere. I felt suffocated but yet there was no where else to go! Looking outside the window, the blocks opposite my block had already disappeared in the haze.

Just as I thought we were going to die soon due to suffocation, suddenly heard a loud thunder! Sound like it was going to rain. And yes! it rained! Joy! A welcome rain and long overdue rain. Many thanks to whom who sent the rain. Be it the Rain God or Dragon King, whoever you are! Thank you very much!!!! 

It was quite a heavy downpour but still not enough to clear the haze. In fact, when the rain water touched the ground, it gave out an unpleasant smell. A burning smell! Too strong and overwhelming that none of my family members could take it. After rain, we felt even more humid and suffocating but at least we still could catch some fresh air.

Putting my fingers cross, hopefully there will be more rain not only in Singapore but in Sumatra as well!

Haze caused Closure of Singapore Schools

Yesterday was Hari Rajar Haji but yet the haze seemed to affect the mood of everybody. At late noon, the haze had gone from bad to worst and broke the PSI 300 mark. It had reached to very unhealthy range! Since it was holiday yesterday there was not much news from the government on what action they would take. Furthermore, our Prime Minister was busy forming its new cabinet so didn't expect too much from them either.

At night, finally saw some announcement on TV. The MOE announced all primary and secondary schools would be closed on Friday, 25th September 2015. All students didn't need to attend school the next day unless the parents had difficulties arranging them to stay at home. This could be first time in Singapore history that Singapore schools were closed due to the haze. I remembered the last time the schools were closed was due to SARS in 2003.

The members of the public were also advised to go to their nearest RC (resident committee) or CC (community centers) as these places provided air con and acted as a 'temporary hideout" for people who needed a respite from haze. It also stated that the pioneer generation and people holding CHAS card were eligible to collect N95 mask from CC. But I wondered who would want to go out during such time just to collect a mask. Wasn't it safer to stay indoor?

Singaporean should be educated to purchase some masks at home to prepare for such event. Knowing the haze is now an annual event, we just cannot go without masks, especially N95 mask!