TRAVEL ADVISORY

Thailand - natural disaster


Unhealthy levels of haze, resulting from forest fires and slash-and-burn-farming, are affecting the air quality in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Mae Hong Son provinces. This has prompted provincial authorities to declare some districts in the provinces of Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai haze disaster areas, and to issue warnings concerning poor air quality. Several airlines have reportedly cancelled flights to the area and travellers should confirm domestic and international flights with their airline prior to departure as flights could be affected by restricted visibility. Thai health authorities are recommending people limit outdoor activities, and people with respiratory ailments, pregnant women, the elderly and children are advised to wear facemasks.

Canadians should monitor local news and weather reports, follow the advice of local authorities, avoid affected areas, and contact their travel agent or tour operator to confirm travel arrangements. For further information, please see the website of the Thai Pollution Control Department at: http://www.pcd.go.th/AirQuality/Regional/Default.cfm