The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET Office) has reported a gradual improvement in visibility as haze levels begin to decline, following a week of significantly poor air quality across the country. At the peak of the atmospheric pollution, horizontal visibility dropped to a low of 1.5 kilometers; however, it has now improved to approximately 4 kilometers.
While some degree of haze persists in the Greater Malé Area, there has been a notable reduction in air pollution nationwide compared to previous days. Forecasters attribute this seasonal decline in air quality to smoke and particulate matter drifting from the Indian and Himalayan regions during the Northeast Monsoon (Iruvai). Since these conditions are likely to recur throughout the season, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) continues to urge the public, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, to take necessary health precautions and wear face masks when outdoors.
