U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Thailand -- The United States continued its support for firefighting efforts in northern Thailand through a donation of equipment and materials to assist firefighters and volunteers in Mae Hong Son.

On June 30, the U.S. Mission to Thailand donated equipment to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation in Mae Hong Son. The contribution included leaf blowers, N95 masks, and firefighting equipment with a total value of approximately $15,000 (470,000 THB).

This is the United States’ latest contribution to help its Thai allies respond to wildfires and air pollution in northern Thailand. Since 2019, the U.S. government has donated approximately $45,000 (1.395 million THB) in equipment to firefighters and volunteers in northern Thailand. As fires threaten lives, farmland, and the environment, these donations help prevent fires, which contribute to air pollution and negatively impact human health throughout the region.

“The United States is proud to support our Thai allies, especially our partners in Mae Hong Son Province and the brave firefighters and volunteers throughout northern Thailand, as they fight wildfires and air pollution,” said Consul General Sean O’Neill. “These men and women put their lives on the line to fight fires and improve the air quality and health of those who live in northern Thailand. We all breathe the same air and are all grateful for their hard work, bravery, and dedication.”

“I would like to thank the U.S. government for the donated equipment.  This donation demonstrates strong friendship and ongoing partnership between the U.S. and Thailand. This equipment will help us fight wildfires and tackle PM 2.5 dust particles problem more efficiently, which will improve the air quality for the people of Mae Hong Son and nearby,” Mae Hong Son Governor Sithichai Jindaluang said.

For more information regarding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index for northern Thailand, please visit the U.S. Embassy website: https://th.usembassy.gov/air-quality-index-aqi/.  The information is calculated based on air pollution data captured by monitors owned and maintained by the Royal Thai government.