Singapore will close its elementary and secondary schools on Friday as the haze from Indonesian forest fires pushed air quality into the "hazardous" range for the first time this year, covering the city-state with a layer of smog.
The three-hour pollutant standards index hit 320 as of 1 a.m. Singapore time, according to National Environment Agency, the highest level this year. A reading exceeding 300 is classified as "hazardous," where the public is advised to minimize outdoor activities.
A nationwide music test has also been postponed until Tuesday, the Ministry of Education said. Some international schools including the Swiss School in Singapore will also be shut on Friday. Junior colleges and universities will remain open.