BANGKOK, THAILAND – Newly released satellite data showed hundreds of forest and field fires burning across Thailand, with even larger blazes in neighboring countries expected to worsen air quality.
Hundreds of domestic hotspots detected
The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported that satellites had identified 573 fire hotspots nationwide. Most of the fires were linked to agriculture, with 189 hotspots recorded in farming areas and 174 in land reform zones. National forest reserves were also heavily affected, with 102 separate fires described as a looming threat to air pollution.
Regional fires fuel cross‑border haze
Conditions across the region were even more severe, with Cambodia reporting 1,283 hotspots, more than twice as many as in Thailand. Myanmar recorded 671 hotspots, while Laos and Vietnam registered 261 and 130 respectively.
“We must closely monitor the development of PM2.5 fine dust pollution,”
said GISTDA, warning that the data pointed to a clear regional crisis.
Health risks from toxic smog
The rising number of fires in forests and agricultural land was cited as the main indicator of an imminent PM2.5 crisis that could blanket large parts of the country in the coming days. People in northern and north‑eastern provinces were viewed as particularly at risk from health‑damaging smog that could cause respiratory diseases and long‑term harm. Authorities already urged the public to prepare for poor air quality and adopt protective measures.
Satellite technology tracks every blaze
GISTDA said it was using the VIIRS system on NASA’s Suomi NPP satellite to detect even small fires from space. The high‑resolution data were being published in real time on a public website so residents could check conditions in their own areas. The agency stated that this transparency was intended to raise awareness of the danger.
Slash‑and‑burn practices under scrutiny
According to the agency, most of the fires were human‑made, caused by farmers using traditional slash‑and‑burn methods to clear fields for the new growing season. This practice remained widespread even though it was illegal in many protected areas and difficult for authorities to control. The result was described as a recurring environmental disaster that endangered the health of millions every year.
Authorities urge preparation and protection
GISTDA and health agencies called on the population to follow air‑quality reports closely and to wear N95 masks when pollution levels were high. They recommended that children, older people and those with chronic illnesses avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and suggested the use of air purifiers at home. Officials said the coming weeks would reveal whether this year’s fire season would surpass previous years, with satellites continuing to monitor every development.