Dangerously hazy conditions across Male' area today

Air quality monitoring systems have shown that air pollution levels in the Male' region are at dangerously high levels today, posing a risk to all residents.

According to the air quality monitoring system installed at the Maldives National University’s Centre for Maritime Studies in Villingili, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Villingili reached 179, which falls under the red alert category. Meanwhile, a privately installed air quality monitor in Male' recorded an AQI of 139, placing it under an orange alert.

An AQI between 151 and 200 is classified as unhealthy for everyone, while an AQI between 101 and 150 indicates unhealthy conditions for high risk groups, including children, the elderly, and people with respiratory illnesses.

According to IQAir, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in Villingili have reached 95 micrograms per cubic metre, which is 19 times higher than the guideline limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

People are advised to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when going outside, keep doors and windows closed, and use air purifiers indoors where possible.

Darkened skies and poor visibility across several areas today is observed.

Maldives is typically affected by transboundary air pollution during the Iruvai monsoon, caused by dust and industrial emissions originating from northern India. The haze often leads to reduced visibility and can trigger respiratory and other health problems.

The Iruvai monsoon began on December 17, marking the earliest onset in the past five years.