As today's air quality reading has reached dangerous levels with it being categorized with a "Red Alert", the Health Protection Agency has appealed to the public to take protective measures.
As per a social media post by the HPA, the Maldives Meteorological office's statistics shows that a large area in Maldives will experience unclean air today.
"Take special care and ensure protective measures," said HPA.
The situation at hand
Monitoring stations at the Maldives National University’s Centre for Maritime Studies in Villimalé recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 154.
An AQI between 151 and 200, which is a Red Alert, is classified as unhealthy for everyone, while an AQI between 101 and 150, which is an Orange Alert, 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 60 micrograms per cubic metre, which is 12 times higher than the guideline limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
It is imperative masks be worn if people do go outside and to limit exposure by staying indoors as much as possible. Windows and doors are to be kept closed in order to reduce unclean air from entering households, with an air purifier to be put into use.
- HDh. Kulhudhuffushi: AQI of 159
- Sh. Funadhoo: AQI of 68
- Dh. Kudahuvadhoo: AQI of 119
- Fuvahmulah: AQI of 82
- Addu: AQI of 110
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 accompanying drops in visibility causes aviation issues and increases the risk of various health issues.
