World · Malaysia Bureau
Sarawak launches cloud seeding as haze crisis deepens, water supplies cut
Sarawak authorities will conduct cloud seeding operations from September 3 to 5 as transboundary haze worsens across the state. Four water treatment plants have been forced to shut down due to deteriorating air quality.
LSN Malaysia ·
Cloud seeding operations will be deployed across Sarawak over a three-day period beginning September 3 as the state battles escalating haze conditions. The weather modification initiative represents an escalation in response measures as air quality indices continue to decline across the region.
Four water treatment facilities have suspended operations amid the hazardous air quality, creating potential supply challenges for affected communities. Authorities have attributed the haze surge to transboundary pollution, with smoke originating from land-clearing activities in neighbouring regions affecting air quality throughout Sarawak.
The cloud seeding programme aims to induce rainfall and help clear suspended particulates from the atmosphere. State officials have indicated the operation will focus on areas experiencing the most severe air quality degradation.
The decision to activate cloud seeding follows several days of deteriorating conditions, with air quality readings reaching hazardous levels across multiple districts. Authorities have urged residents to take precautionary measures, including limiting outdoor activities and using appropriate respiratory protection.