Sarawak's haze set to worsen as dry spell looms, MetMalaysia warns

KUCHING — Sarawak residents should not expect sustained relief from haze as recent thunderstorms bring only temporary improvement to air quality, the state's Meteorological Department has cautioned. The director of MetMalaysia's Sarawak office warned that persistent dry weather is expected to set in following the current spell of storms, potentially exacerbating haze-related concerns in the coming weeks. The thunderstorms that have affected parts of the state in recent days have provided a brief respite by clearing suspended particles from the atmosphere, but residents are advised that this improvement will likely be short-lived. MetMalaysia's forecast indicates an extended dry spell ahead, which typically creates conditions favourable for haze formation and accumulation. Authorities have advised the public to monitor air quality indices closely and take necessary precautions, particularly for vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, during the anticipated prolonged dry period.