Holidaymakers warned of haze in northern Thailand
Tourists visiting the popular Thai city of Chiang Mai are being warned of the risk of air pollution, which authorities have blamed on fires in neighbouring countries.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has added the northern city to the list of urban areas affected by heavy air pollution and smoke haze in its latest travel advice for Thailand.
It said: "High levels of air pollution can occur in major urban areas, including in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, which is also affected by regional smoke haze.
"This may aggravate bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be especially affected."
The FCO said the problem was often worse in March and April in parts of the north, northeast and south of Thailand.
"Keep up-to-date with local information and seek medical advice on appropriate precautions," it said.
The authorities are urging citizens to wear face masks and the governor of Chiang Mai has ordered public health offices to distribute them to locals.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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