BANGKOK, 8 February 2012 (NNT) – The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry of Thailand expects the smoke haze situation to be mild this year, given the La Nina phenomenon has led to continuous rain which will last until May.

According to the Ministry, the La Nina has caused more rain since January. Eight provinces in the North, which normally experience haze problems this time of year, are expected to have less smoke this year.

Since January, Lampang is the only province with dust article amount exceeding the standard.

Nonetheless, the officials are keeping an eye on hot spots in neighboring countries and smoke problems around the borders, which could affect air quality in Thailand. People have also been asked to avoid burning garbage, or burning plains for farming.

Read more: NNT