By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 4: Serian’s Air Pollutant Index (API) reading soared to 495 as of 7am today, which could trigger an emergency declaration if it breaches 500.
According to data from the API Management System (APIMS) under the Department of Environment, three areas recorded very unhealthy readings above 200: Kuching (289), Samarahan (265), and Sri Aman (260).
Majority of areas recorded unhealthy readings with Sarikei at 181 followed by Sibu (174), Mukah (169), Bintulu (159), Samalaju (153), and LP Miri (149).
Meanwhile, Limbang (99), Miri (94), and Kapit (90) recorded moderate readings.
Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said an API reading of 500 or above could prompt an emergency declaration for the affected area under National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) Directive No. 1.
An API reading of 0 to 50 indicates good air quality, 51 to 100 moderate, 101 to 200 unhealthy, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, and readings above 300 hazardous. — DayakDaily
