Bangkok: Transboundary haze is becoming a pressing issue as hotspots in neighboring countries continue to increase.

According to Thai News Agency, GISTDA reported that satellite imagery on March 23, 2026, detected 1,488 hotspots in Thailand. Neighboring countries, especially Myanmar, are experiencing a high number of hotspots, posing a significant risk.

Data from the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system indicates that the majority of hotspots in Thailand are concentrated in forested areas. Protected forests reported the highest number of hotspots, with 614, followed by national forest reserves with 583 points. Agricultural areas accounted for 105 hotspots, while community and other areas had 90 points. Land reform areas reported 87 hotspots, and areas along highways had 9.

The situation in neighboring countries is alarming, with Myanmar reporting the highest number of hotspots at 6,581. Laos follows with 1,850, Cambodia with 627, Vietnam with 361, and Malaysia with 165. This situation is likely to lead to transboundary haze, impacting air quality in Thailand, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions.