Haze improves, 4 Sarawak areas record unhealthy API

KUALA LUMPUR: Haze conditions are showing signs of improvement, with only four Sarawakian locations currently reporting unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) levels as of 8am today. The Department of Environment's Air Pollutant Index Management System revealed that Serian registered an unhealthy API reading of 180, while Samarahan and Kuching both recorded 168, and Sri Aman measured 165.

Out of the total 68 API monitoring stations across the nation, four stations reported unhealthy readings (101-200), 61 stations recorded moderate readings (51-100), and three stations were categorized as having good readings (0-50). No stations were found to be emitting very unhealthy or hazardous air. This improvement is attributed to rainfall experienced in several regions.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has predicted heavy rain in various areas surrounding the Klang Valley in the afternoon. Simultaneously, Sarawak is also anticipated to receive rainfall in Kuching, Miri, and Serian, both in the morning and afternoon. Authorities in the affected regions are urging residents to curtail outdoor activities, use face masks while venturing outdoors, and maintain adequate hydration to mitigate the adverse health impacts of poor air quality.