Five areas in Sarawak recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings this morning as transboundary haze continued to affect the state.
As of 8 am, the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) recorded unhealthy readings in Kuching at 153, Samarahan at 156, Serian at 170, Bintulu at 156 and Samalaju at 151.
Serian recorded the highest reading among the five areas.
The number of areas with unhealthy readings fell from six recorded yesterday afternoon. However, haze conditions remain a concern across the state.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said yesterday that transboundary haze was expected to affect 19 areas over the next few days, as prevailing wind patterns carry smoke from hotspots in neighbouring regions into Sarawak.
The areas identified are Betong, Bintulu, Daro, Julau, Kanowit, Kuching, Lundu, Marudi, Miri, Mukah, Pakan, Samarahan, Saratok, Serian, Sibu, Simunjan, Song, Sri Aman and Tatau.
Uggah, who is also chairman of the State Disaster Management Committee, said the affected areas would depend on prevailing wind conditions and the movement of smoke from regional hotspots.
