Air quality in Male’ drops to unhealthy level

Air quality in the Maldivian capital has dropped to an unhealthy level, posing a risk for sensitive groups.

According to the IQ Air, the Male’ currently has an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 104, which falls into the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category. This means the air pollution poses health risks for sensitive individuals like children, older adults, and people with heart or lung conditions, who should limit prolonged outdoor exertion, while the general public may start feeling effects.

This level, color-coded orange, indicates moderate pollution, requiring awareness and reduced activity for vulnerable groups.

According to information available from IQ Air, the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is at 36.6 micrograms per cubic meter – which is 7.3 times the World Health Organization annual PM2.5 guideline value.

Health recommendations:

• Reduce outdoor exercise
• Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor air
• Sensitive groups should wear a mask outdoors
• Run an air purifier

Unlike mist or fog, haze is caused by fine particles in the air, which pollute the air and reduce visibility.

The Maldives usually faces haze during December and January, reducing visibility and deteriorating air quality.

Environmental analysts have warned the issue has become more severe in recent years, mainly due to hazardous gases expelled from factories in neighboring countries.