Visibility drops below 2km as haze worsen across Maldives

Haze conditions have worsened across the Maldives, with the visibility dropping below two kilometers.

In a statement on Thursday, the Maldives Meteorological Service said that haze conditions have worsened to a dangerous level.

According to the agency, the haze conditions Thursday are at its first over the last seven days.

These conditions are expected to persist over the next two days across the country with the northeasterly winds.

The weather agency advised people going outdoors as well as seafarers to remain vigilant.

According to the IQ Air, the central city of Male’ and Kulhudhuffushi City in the north currently have an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 164 and 157, respectively.

This is categorized as ‘red’ or ‘unhealthy’.

Meanwhile, AQI level in southern cities of Addu and Fuvahmulah are 122 and 147, respectively.

This is categorized as ‘orange or ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups.’

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, when the Hulhangu Monsoon transitions into Iruvai Monsoon.

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