Air quality in northern atolls deteriorates due to haze

The Maldives Meteorological Service reported tonight that air quality in the northern atolls has significantly worsened due to haze. Visibility in these areas has decreased to approximately three kilometers, and the condition is expected to extend to the central atolls in the coming days.

Recent data from the Air Quality Monitoring System in Vilimale’ highlighted extremely poor air quality in the Male’ region yesterday. Measurements taken at the National University’s Center for Maritime Studies campus building showed an air quality index of 107, with even higher levels recorded before 11:00 am.

This level of pollution is classified as hazardous to health, prompting officials to advise high-risk individuals to take precautions and for everyone to wear masks when outdoors.

Following the heavy rains last week, air pollution has begun to affect the Maldives again, with the northern islands currently experiencing the worst of the haze.

Haze and reduced visibility are common during the southwest monsoon season due to air pollution drifting in from northern India. However, this year, the Maldives experienced haze earlier than usual, even before the northeast monsoon season began.

Typically, haze is brought to the Maldives by northeasterly winds from the Bay of Bengal during the northeast monsoon. However, this year, polluted air arrived in early December from the Arabian Sea, attributed to the wind patterns caused by Cyclone Fengal, which formed in northern India.

The delayed onset of the southwest monsoon, which officially began last Thursday, has also contributed to unusual weather patterns. The polluted air from northern India contains dust and industrial emissions, leading to reduced visibility, travel challenges, and various health concerns.

As air quality deteriorates, residents are urged to remain cautious. Wearing masks and limiting outdoor activities are recommended to minimize health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.