MET Malaysia: Forest Fires in Indonesia to Cause Haze in Parts Of M’sia For The Next 7 Days

A few states in Malaysia will be experiencing haze after forest fires were reported across five districts in Indonesia.

According to Astro Awani, the Malaysian Meteorological Department’s (MET Malaysia) deputy head of operations, Muhammad Helmi Abdullah, stated that haze will affect some states in Malaysia for about 7 days, followed by Southwest Monsoon winds and stable, dry weather.

Source: the straits times

“Based on our forecast, the movement of the haze from Sumatra has already affected Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Putrajaya, and Penang,” he told the news portal.

“Seeing as how we are still experiencing winds of increasing speed from the Southwest, we predict that this haze will continue for the next 7 days.”

Just yesterday (30th July), about 138 forest and land fire hot spots were detected in Sumatra, while its capital, Riau, experienced thick haze. Within Riau, 30 hot spots were found in the Pelalawan district, to the east of Pekanbaru.

Source: the orange county register

Meanwhile, schools in the area remain open. The head of Pekanbaru’s Education Office was quoted by Channel NewsAsia as saying,

“We encourage (schools) to reduce outdoor activities and (teachers and students) to wear masks.”

10,000 masks have also been distributed by the Riau Health Office to Pekanbaru residents as a precaution.

So, Malaysians, be sure to take the necessary precautions for the next 7 days!

Also read: MOE: Students Can’t Do Outdoor Activities If Haze API Reading Exceeds 100