Haze threat fades ahead of Singapore Grand Prix

The air quality is improving in Singapore following fears haze could disrupt the running of this weekend’s race.

The haze is caused by fires in Sumatra and Borneo to the west of Singapore which have been set to clear land for palm oil plantations. Starting the fires is illegal, but nonetheless this presents a regular problem around this time of year. Regional weather patterns can also exacerbate the problem.

On Monday the Pollutant Standards Index in Singapore exceeded 200. This level which is described as “very unhealthy”, and the elderly, pregnant women and children are advised to do as little outdoor activity as possible when the air quality is this poor.

Since then conditions have gradually improved. At 6pm on Thursday the PSI range for Singapore was between 68 and 85, which is considered “moderate”. Eastward winds may further improve conditions over the coming days.

According to Singapore’s National Environement Agency, “The 24-hour PSI for the next 24 hours is expected to be in the high end of the Moderate range and the low end of the Unhealthy range.”

The weather pattern at the track will be typical for the region: daytime temperatures will peak at 30C and will only drop by a few degrees at nightfall, when the track action begins.

The risk of thunderstorms is always high but they tend to occur earlier in the day and the hot conditions means the track dries out quickly.

For more updates on the track conditions during each session keep an eye on F1 Fanatic Live and the F1 Fanatic Twitter account.

Location of Singapore

See the location of every race on the 2015 F1 calendar here:

• 2015 F1 calendar

2015 Singapore Grand Prix