DOE tracks 68 stations nationwide, no areas report good air as haze worsens

As of August 22, the Air Pollution Index (API) reading in Serian reached 196, signaling a very unhealthy air quality category. Ten other locations, including Kuching, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu, Samalaju, Bukit Rambai, Melaka, and Miri, also reported unhealthy readings. In contrast, 57 areas nationwide were categorized as having moderate air quality, with no areas experiencing good, very unhealthy, or hazardous conditions.

The Department of Environment (DOE) is monitoring the country's ambient air quality via 68 stations to identify any significant shifts that could impact public health and the environment. These API updates occur hourly. The Air Pollution Index range is categorized as follows: 0-50 (good), 51-100 (moderate), 101-200 (unhealthy), 201-300 (very unhealthy), and above 300 (hazardous).

Meanwhile, the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) reported scattered hotspots in West and South Kalimantan, along with isolated hotspots in other parts of Indonesia. The centre also identified hotspots in central and southern Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia, Java, and Sulawesi. In addition, dense smoke plumes were observed in parts of Kalimantan and Sumatra.

ASMC maintains Alert Level 2 for southern Asean, with updates issued twice daily regarding the region's haze situation. Weather forecasts predict dry conditions over most of southern Asean, while showers are expected over northern Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia, and northern Borneo. The centre warns of an increased likelihood of transboundary haze due to escalating hotspots and smoke haze, particularly in areas experiencing prolonged dry conditions.

Prevailing winds are expected to blow from the southeast or south, potentially spreading smoke to additional areas.

Separately, showers are expected to continue over most of the northern Asean region, with heavy rain anticipated in northern Vietnam. Other areas may experience drier conditions. Hotspots and localized smoke plumes may emerge in drier areas, but the overall haze situation is forecast to remain subdued. Winds over the northern Asean region are expected to blow primarily from the southwest.