KUCHING: Seven areas in Sarawak recorded hazardous air quality as of noon today (Aug 31), with the Air Pollutant Index (API) in Serian surging to 463.
According to data compiled by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), the latest reading placed Serian as the worst-affected area in the state, followed by Tebedu at 409, Lubok Antu (387), Lundu (381), Kuching (343), Samarahan (334) and Sri Aman (330).
All seven areas recorded API readings above 300, classified as hazardous.
Three other areas recorded very unhealthy air quality, namely Sarikei at 277, Sibu (228) and Mukah (220).
Eight areas recorded unhealthy readings, with Samalaju registering 184, Miri and ILP Miri both at 170, Bintulu (166), Kapit (163), Limbang (160), Lawas (141) and Bario (118).
The latest readings indicate a further deterioration in air quality across several parts of Sarawak, with Serian rising from 204 at noon yesterday to 463 today.
Kuching also recorded a sharp increase, from 304 yesterday to 343 today, while Samarahan rose from 332 to 334. Tebedu increased from 302 to 409.
Under the API classification, readings of 101 to 200 are considered unhealthy, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, while readings above 300 are classified as hazardous.
