Residents in many parts of Singapore – from the north-eastern areas to the west – have complained of a strong burning smell that started on Mon afternoon, prompting an investigation by SCDF and NEA. As of 11pm, there is still no word on the source of the smell but the SCDF said in a tweet that no toxic industrial chemicals were detected in the air. NEA said that air quality levels “were found to be well within safety limits” in the Sengkang and Punggol areas despite the strong smell. Convergence of winds over the northern half of Singapore might have led to the “accumulation of smells” there, it said. “Winds are expected to turn to blow from the south or south-east later tonight, which will help to disperse any smells in the area,” NEA said, adding that it will continue to monitor the situation. Residents in Sengkang, Hougang and Buangkok were among the first to report a strong smell from as early as 4.30pm, before similar complaints came in from people living in Bishan and Ang Mo Kio. They described it as a foul smell, “chemical-like” and choking. Some also reported hazy conditions in the area. This later appeared to spread to areas in the west, including Holland and Commonwealth.... Continue Reading