MET Office has warned that air pollution will be at hazardous levels across the Maldives region, and urges the public to take precautions.
MET Office said that the entire country will experience haze today, with conditions worse in central Maldives. Visibility has decreased to under 3km according to reports, they said.
With northeastern winds, the hazy conditions will persist over the country for the next five days, MET Office said.
Health risks posed due to haze:
- Breathing difficulties, asthma, COPD and other respiratory illnesses
- Affect development of lungs in children
- Brain and nerve conditions
- Some types of cancer
- Complications during pregnancy
- Heart conditions and strokes
Health Protection Agency urged the public to take preventive measures in light of current haze conditions. Steps advised include:
- Persons with existing respiratory conditions to avoid outdoor sports
- Persons with existing respiratory conditions to wear masks when outdoors
- Closing doors and windows to prevent polluted air from entering homes
- Using air purifiers
MET Office urged seafarers and those spending extended time outdoors to take preventive measures and follow HPA guidelines.
