Southern Vietnam Sees Unusual Haze, Transboundary Smoke Suspected

An unusual haze has been observed blanketing the skies in many parts of southern Vietnam, including Ca Mau, Can Tho, and An Giang, for the past two days, persisting from morning till night even during sunny periods. The haze has slightly reduced visibility. In Ca Mau, the haze was most prominent in the early morning but lasted throughout the day with varying intensity. Similar phenomena were recorded in Can Tho, An Giang, and parts of the Southwest Sea, such as Nam Du Island, from the afternoon of September 14 to noon on September 15. Mr. Huynh Minh Nhan, Director of the Ca Mau Provincial Meteorological and Hydrological Station, stated that the locality has not recorded such prolonged haze in recent years. Data from the Ca Mau Meteorological Station indicates that current weather conditions are not conducive to the formation of fog according to meteorological principles. One possibility being considered by experts is transboundary smoke. Indonesia is currently experiencing numerous forest fire hotspots in Sumatra and Kalimantan, and the smoke could be spreading across the region. However, more data is needed to determine the extent of its impact on the Mekong Delta. In 2015, the Southern region previously recorded similar phenomena in Ca Mau, Can Tho, Ho Chi Minh City, and other areas. At that time, smoke from forest fires in Indonesia was identified as one of the contributing factors to the dry haze. Mr. Tran Van Hung, Deputy Director of the Southern Meteorological and Hydrological Department, also suggested that the phenomenon is not solely due to meteorological factors like wind and humidity. However, he emphasized that specific causes require more observation data on fine dust and air quality. Authorities advise that reduced visibility could affect transportation, especially in the early morning and on busy routes. If the air contains fine dust or pollutants, children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory illnesses should limit prolonged outdoor activities. While awaiting the determination of the cause, residents are advised to limit unnecessary outdoor excursions, wear masks, and take appropriate protective measures.