Millions of people across South East Asia have been exposed to toxic wildfire haze, with more than 12,000 children reported to be suffering respiratory issues, according to the BBC.
Live updates
Loading updates…
Key facts
- Toxic wildfire haze has spread across South East Asia, the BBC reports.
- Millions of people have been exposed to the smog.
- More than 12,000 children are suffering respiratory issues.
- The BBC's report links the intensifying conditions to a 'super' El Niño.
A toxic haze from wildfires is spreading across South East Asia, exposing millions of people to smog, according to the BBC.
More than 12,000 children have suffered respiratory issues as a result of the smog, the BBC reported.
The BBC links the intensifying conditions to a ‘super’ El Niño climate pattern. Further details on the affected countries and the projected duration of the episode were not available in the source.
Why it matters
Wildfire haze is a public health hazard that can affect large populations, and the BBC reports that thousands of children are already experiencing respiratory issues across the region.
Frequently asked questions
How many people have been affected by the haze?
According to the BBC, millions of people have been exposed to the smog, and more than 12,000 children are suffering respiratory issues.
What is causing the wildfire haze to worsen?
The BBC reports that the situation is intensifying as a 'super' El Niño develops, a climate pattern associated with drier conditions.
Who is most at risk from the smog?
The BBC highlights that more than 12,000 children have suffered respiratory issues, indicating children are among those significantly affected.
Timeline
- Indonesia wildfires send toxic haze across Southeast Asia
Al Jazeera: Indonesia’s Kalimantan province, sending smoke and toxic haze across Southeast Asia.
- Toxic wildfire haze spreads across South East Asia as 'super' El Niño intensifies
BBC World: Millions of people have been exposed to the smog, with more than 12,000 children suffering respiratory issues.