MANILA: Some cities in Metro Manila reached “very unhealthy” to “acutely unhealthy” levels of air quality on Tuesday (Sept 1) morning due to haze possibly linked to ongoing fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB).
In its data as of 6am, the DENR-EMB in the National Capital Region (NCR) said several areas recorded high PM2.5 levels. PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter.
The DENR-EMB in the NCR said that the following areas logged acutely unhealthy air quality index (AQI).
Under this level, the bureau said that the AQI ranges from 201 to 300 where everyone may be noticeably affected and outdoor activities must be restricted:
Parañaque (296 AQI)
Quezon City (Ateneo) (241 AQI)
Las Piñas (237 AQI)
Manila (231 AQI)
Malabon City (229 AQI)
Taguig (224 AQI)
Valenzuela (224 AQI)
Marikina (Parang) (217 AQI)
Muntinlupa (Filinvest) (216 AQI)
San Juan City (213 AQI)
Mandaluyong (207 AQI)
Meanwhile, Navotas and Pateros reached very unhealthy air quality, where their AQI stood at 153 and 172, respectively. Under this level, AQI ranges from 151 to 200 with the bureau warning that those with heart and lung conditions may worsen.
Makati reported an AQI of 111, which is equivalent to unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups. The bureau advised of limiting outdoor activities as there is a risk of difficulty in breathing for everyone, especially for sensitive groups.
Only Quezon City (SMPH Commonwealth) logged fair AQI (98), where sensitive individuals should still avoid outdoor exposure.
The bureau advised the public to wear masks, particularly N95 masks, especially if you need to go outside. It then encouraged the public to limit outdoor activities, especially those who are sensitive to air pollution. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
