KUCHING: Rain may offer some respite from the haze in parts of Sarawak today (Sept 11), although air quality remained unhealthy in several areas as of this morning.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) issued a thunderstorm warning at 6.30 am, with thunderstorms and heavy rain expected in parts of Kapit, Song, Sri Aman and Lubok Antu until 10 am.
Meanwhile, real-time monitoring by IQAir showed seven locations in Sarawak recording unhealthy air quality at around 8 am.
Kota Samarahan recorded the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) reading at 186, followed by Kuching at 180 and Sri Aman at 170.
Sarikei recorded 166, Sibu 157, Bintulu 156 and Mukah 155.
All seven locations were categorised as unhealthy under the AQI scale.
Miri recorded a reading of 121 which was categorised as unhealthy for sensitive groups, while Kapit and Limbang registered moderate readings of 92 and 74 respectively.
IQAir’s air quality map also showed elevated pollution levels across parts of Borneo, with fire indicators detected in several areas of Kalimantan.
Sarawak has been experiencing hazy conditions in recent days amid widespread fires in neighbouring Indonesia, including peatland fires which can burn on the surface and underground for extended periods.
Rainfall could provide temporary relief by reducing the concentration of airborne pollutants, although haze conditions remain dependent on factors including wind direction, weather conditions and the location and intensity of fires.
Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and those with respiratory or heart conditions, are advised to reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities when air quality is unhealthy.
