Haze to worsen over next five days across Maldives

Persistent haze will continue across the country over the coming five days, the MET Office has announced. 

The MET Office said that the entire Maldives, particularly northern and central atolls, are facing decreased air quality and haze today. In the north, visibility is reported at below 2km, the office said. 

The MET Office stated that haze is expected to persist nationwide over the next five days. 

MET Office cautioned seafarers and those outside for extended time periods to take precautions. 

The Air Quality Monitoring System at the Vilimale' Centre for Maritime Studies Campus indicates that the AQI in the area is currently at 115. A private Air Quality Monitoring System in Male' shows that AQI in the capital is at 85. 

AQI between 151-200 calls for a Red Alert. This means that the air quality is hazardous to all persons. If the AQI is between 101-150, this equals an Orange Alert, where high risk individuals must take precautions. 

In this situation, it is important to minimize time spent outdoors, and to wear masks if outside. Doors and windows should be kept shut as a precaution, and the use of air purifiers is recommended. 

AQI across the country:

Maldives is typically affected by transboundary air pollution during the Iruvai monsoon every year, 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.