10 Areas Record Unhealthy API

PETALING JAYA: Hot weather and lack of rain are forecast to occur in most areas of Borneo, including Sarawak, until August 20.

According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), analysis of the latest weather forecast models shows that this condition has the potential to persist with the influence of winds from the southern direction as well as the number of hotspots remaining high in Borneo.

This situation has the potential to contribute to the occurrence of haze and reduce visibility, especially in the southern part of Sarawak.

Based on the latest records of the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) today, Serian, Sarawak recorded the highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading of 183 in the unhealthy category.

Samarahan and Kuching recorded API readings of 170 respectively, followed by Sri Aman (162), Sarikei (158), Bintulu (152) and Mukah (151).

In Kuala Lumpur, Cheras also recorded an unhealthy reading at 153, while Johan Setia, Selangor recorded 149 and Shah Alam 102.

The situation sees seven areas in Sarawak on the list of 10 locations with the highest API readings as of today.

MetMalaysia previously informed that the haze affecting several areas in the country is expected to continue without significant change throughout the coming week.

Weather conditions are also expected to remain almost the same throughout the coming week.

More significant weather changes are expected to occur after the Southwest Monsoon ends at the end of September.

Utusan Malaysia