The Singapore Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) issued its highest-level haze alert for southern Southeast Asia as Indonesian fires blanketed the region in toxic smoke, triggering severe health and environmental impacts.
The Alert System and Its Implications
According to Thai PBS, the ASMC’s alert was issued Friday, October 16, 2026, but similar alerts had already been issued twice in 2026: August 26 and March 27. The months-long haze crisis has disrupted life in Southeast Asia, closing schools and spiking respiratory complaints. Singapore announced on October 16 it would issue warnings to seven Indonesian companies identified as responsible for fires, warning that the worst may yet come.
El Niño and the Scale of the Crisis
Indonesian fires have intensified due to the “super El Niño” phenomenon, which has caused extreme drought and heightened fire risks. Thai PBS reports that the current El Niño is comparable to the 2015 event, which saw significant fires. By October, environmental groups estimate a large area has been scorched, with another group citing a higher figure.
Air quality in Singapore reached alarming levels, with PM2.5 concentrations peaking at 284 micrograms per cubic meter on October 15.
Indonesia’s Response and International Concerns
Indonesian authorities have deployed 60,000 personnel and 50 aircraft to combat the fires, while the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has pledged to hire more forest guards and restore peatland ecosystems.
Despite efforts, the fires have disrupted daily life, closing schools and spiking respiratory illnesses.
Indonesian officials have faced criticism for delaying a national disaster declaration, which would accelerate resource allocation. The government has also rejected offers of help from Malaysia and Singapore.
Looking Ahead: Climate and Policy Challenges
Thai PBS notes that peatland fires, which smolder underground and are hard to extinguish, remain a critical issue. The ASMC’s alert highlights the urgency of cross-border cooperation, as haze from Indonesia continues to impact Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond.
With the 2026 El Niño expected to persist into 2027, the region faces a prolonged battle against fire and pollution. Thai PBS reports that rainfall is delayed until November, prolonging the dry season. For now, the focus remains on containing the fires and mitigating their health and environmental toll.