GEORGE TOWN: Penang folk experienced a moment of reprieve from shrouded skies after rain washed away the haze on Monday (Aug 4) morning.
The rain, which began at about 11am, cooled the hot and humid atmosphere of the past few days.
Motorist Fendi Khamis, 43, said he was relieved that the persistent hot weather had eased.
"Thank God, it has finally rained... I hope that with this, the weather will improve," said the factory worker.
ALSO READ: Haze: API hits unhealthy levels in several areas of Penang
Fendi said that when he was on his way to work at about 8.30am, Penang skies were shrouded by haze.
The air pollutant index (API) reading for the Seberang Perai and Seberang Jaya has improved to 72 and 76, while readings at Minden and Balik Pulau were recorded at moderate levels, 69 and 70 respectively, as of 1pm.
State environment committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo advised the public to take precautions against the haze.
"Reduce strenuous outdoor activities, especially during midday, and always stay hydrated," he said.
Sundarajoo also advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to the outdoors if they have breathing sensitivities.
He said these measures are essential to prevent complications, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic respiratory conditions.
