Haze from Wildfires Affects Visibility and Health
This same transboundary haze has previously been confirmed by EMB as affecting Cebu and other parts of the country.
Samsam Gullas, Mayor of Talisay City
This deterioration comes after a period of improvement following a previous haze episode. The AQI had been recorded at 209 earlier in the morning, indicating a rapid decline in air quality.
Talisay City Mayor Samsam Gullas communicated with EMB officials to understand the sudden drop in air quality, especially after recent rainfall. The EMB attributed the unhealthy levels to transboundary haze from wildfires in Indonesia.
The prevailing southwest winds have transported smoke and fine particulate matter from Indonesia’s Kalimantan and Sumatra regions across the Philippines, exacerbating air quality issues.
Under the EMB's guidelines, an AQI of 201 to 300 is classified as 'Acutely Unhealthy'. Residents are advised to minimize outdoor exertion, especially those with heart or respiratory conditions. Mayor Gullas emphasized the need for caution, urging parents to keep children indoors.
Historically, Metro Cebu recorded its highest AQI of 252 on September 3, also categorized as 'Acutely Unhealthy'. After that spike, air quality improved, reaching a more favorable AQI of 98 on September 10.
The EMB continues to monitor air quality in the region and encourages the public to stay updated on official readings as conditions may rapidly change due to wind patterns.