(Kuching, 20th) Kuching's air quality deteriorated significantly this morning, with the Air Pollution Index (API) rising to 180, pushing Sarawak's state capital into the unhealthy range, as much of the city became shrouded in haze.
According to the latest air quality data released by the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board at 8am today, Serian and Lubok Antu recorded the state's highest API of 185, closely followed by Kuching.
Many areas in Sarawak have also reached unhealthy air quality levels, reflecting a general worsening of atmospheric conditions across the state.
An API between 101 and 200 is categorized as unhealthy. Among these, Samarahan recorded 163, Sri Aman 173, Sarikei 153, Sibu 117, Lundu 175, and Bintulu 158.
Meanwhile, central and northern regions of Sarawak still have moderate air quality. Mukah recorded 91, Bintulu 98, Samarahan 96, Miri 91, and Miri Industrial Training Institute (ILP Miri) 90. Kapit (68), Limbang (66), and Lawas (71) also remain at moderate levels.
Bario continues to have the freshest air in the state, with an API of only 33, which is considered good.
With haze appearing in several parts of Sarawak, visibility in some areas has declined, and the deteriorating air quality has sparked public concern over potential health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses.
Health authorities are urging the public to limit prolonged outdoor activities and stay hydrated; when outdoors, especially in areas where the API has reached unhealthy levels, it is advisable to wear a mask.
Many areas in Sarawak have also reached unhealthy air quality levels, reflecting a general worsening of atmospheric conditions across the state.
An API between 101 and 200 is categorized as unhealthy. Among these, Samarahan recorded 163, Sri Aman 173, Sarikei 153, Sibu 117, Lundu 175, and Bintulu 158.
Meanwhile, central and northern regions of Sarawak still have moderate air quality. Mukah recorded 91, Bintulu 98, Samarahan 96, Miri 91, and Miri Industrial Training Institute (ILP Miri) 90. Kapit (68), Limbang (66), and Lawas (71) also remain at moderate levels.
Bario continues to have the freshest air in the state, with an API of only 33, which is considered good.
With haze appearing in several parts of Sarawak, visibility in some areas has declined, and the deteriorating air quality has sparked public concern over potential health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses.
Health authorities are urging the public to limit prolonged outdoor activities and stay hydrated; when outdoors, especially in areas where the API has reached unhealthy levels, it is advisable to wear a mask.