{News} 080731 Haze hits Penang

Haze hits Penang

Jul 31, 2008, BERNAMA

PENANG, THURS:
Penang was overcome by haze today, with three areas experiencing poor visibility for between two and six kilometres.


The haze is believed to have originated from open burning in Sumatra, Indonesia.According to a spokesman of the Penang Meteorological Department, the situation was worsened with suspended materials in the atmosphere.“We believe the haze is caused by open burning in Sumatra as satellite images have indicated 150 hot spots there.“Due to the dry weather, the haze is expected to last for several days in the northern part of the peninsula.


“Nevertheless, the situation is not alarming as it will change for the better when there are strong winds and heavy downpour,” he told Bernama.As of 11am, the Air Pollutant Index (API) in Seberang Jaya is 79, while the visibility distance is two kilometres.In Prai, the API is 53 while the visibility is six kilometres while at Universiti Sains Malaysia, it is 53, with visibity at five kilometres.The API for unhealthy level is more than 100.

Source: http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Thursday/Frontpage/20080731144053/Article/index_html

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