Singapore’s Burning Smell Is on the Decline – Good News!
For the past two months, many Singaporeans have been nose‑wracking at an irritating burning smell that seems to drift across the island like a stubborn cloud. On Feb 8, folks in Tampines, Bedok and Pasir Ris complained about a strong scent that reminded them more of a barbecue mishap than the usual haze.
Turns out it was a landfill fire in Johor, a backyard drama that was eventually put out. Even after the blaze was handled, the smell lingered – thanks to other intermittent fires and scorching hotspots in the region.
What the National Environment Agency (NEA) is Saying
- NEA keeps receiving complaints about the smell and has logged reporting across various parts of Singapore.
- Smoke plumes from southern Johor, now in a dry and hot spell, have been the culprit.
- Inter‑monsoon conditions are upcoming around early April, bringing more showers that should help dampen the odor.
- PSI values have been in the moderate range (52–67) and PM2.5 readings normal (1–53 µg/m³).
Bottom line: The air is safely “reasonable” right now, so you can still stroll outside, enjoy your favourite coffees, and keep the indoor garlic bombs for dinner. But keep your nose ready – NEA is keeping a close eye on the situation and will update us if anything changes.
