The smoky season in Chiang Mai generally spans from late February to early April, coinciding with the dry season. During this period, the air quality deteriorates significantly due to forest fires, crop burning, and other man-made fires, leading to hazardous levels of pollution.
The intensity and duration of the smoky season can vary each year, but March tends to be the worst month, with some relief coming by mid-April after the Songkran holiday.