Seven areas across Sarawak and Selangor recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings on Aug 9, according to reported air quality data. Six of these locations are in Sarawak, while Johan Setia in Selangor recorded an unhealthy API of 151. The highest reading was found in Serian, Sarawak, at 171.
Unhealthy API Readings Across Sarawak and Selangor
Air quality monitoring on Aug 9 identified unhealthy levels in Serian (171), Samarahan (156), Bintulu (155), Kuching (155), Samalaju (153), and Sri Aman (146) within Sarawak. In Selangor, Johan Setia reached an unhealthy level of 151.
Other regions fared better, with two areas recording good air quality and 59 areas reporting moderate readings.
Did You Know? Forest fires on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo frequently break out during dry spells, which often results in haze smothering parts of Malaysia.
ASMC Identifies Hotspots and Smoke Plumes
The Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) reported in a 10.56am update on Aug 9 that clusters of scattered to widespread hotspots were detected mainly in southern Sumatra and West and Central Kalimantan. Few isolated hotspots were found in other parts of the southern Asean region.
ASMC observed moderate transboundary smoke plumes in West Kalimantan drifting northwards into western Sarawak. According to the center, this contributed to unhealthy air quality levels in the central and western parts of Sarawak and West and Central Kalimantan.
Weather Forecast and Haze Escalation Risks
Dry conditions are forecast to persist over many parts of the southern Asean region in the coming days, according to ASMC. Showers are likely only over Peninsular Malaysia and the northern and central parts of Sumatra.
ASMC stated that the smoke haze and hotspot situation may escalate in fire-prone regions experiencing these prolonged dry conditions. This trend carries a risk of further transboundary haze occurrence. Forest fires have already been reported at various locations on Borneo and Sumatra since the start of the month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which area recorded the highest API reading on Aug 9?
Serian in Sarawak recorded the highest unhealthy API reading at 171.
Where are the primary hotspots located?
According to ASMC, widespread hotspots were mainly detected in the southern parts of Sumatra and West and Central Kalimantan.
What is causing the haze in western Sarawak?
ASMC reported that moderate transboundary smoke plumes from West Kalimantan have been drifting northwards into western Sarawak.
How does the current air quality in your area compare to these reports?
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