2026 Southeast Asian Haze
In short
A severe air pollution crisis affecting much of Southeast Asia and parts of Oceania due to widespread wildfires. The event has been ongoing since 1 August 2026, impacting countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.
In plain words
Large forest fires are creating thick smoke that travels across borders. This smoke makes the air unhealthy to breathe in many different countries. It is caused by fires in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.
A simple example
A person living in Singapore might see a grey, blurry sky and struggle to breathe due to the smoke drifting from distant forest fires.
Why it matters
The haze causes serious health problems like asthma and lung irritation for millions of people. It also disrupts travel, reduces visibility for ships, and harms the local economy.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse this seasonal transboundary haze with local urban smog caused by car exhaust.