Bangkok: Air pollution in Bangkok reached hazardous "red" levels in two districts on Friday, as toxic PM2.5 dust exceeded safety standards in 43 provinces across Thailand, prompting authorities to ramp up cloud-seeding operations.

According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok's Air Quality Information Center reported an average PM2.5 concentration of 57.3 µg/m³, with readings peaking at 86.6 µg/m³. The Bang Rak and Lat Krabang districts were flagged as high-risk zones, with officials advising residents to avoid all outdoor activities.

The Pollution Control Department attributed the morning's murky skies to a combination of high humidity-averaging 88% in the capital-and stagnant air, which trapped dust particles near the surface.