KUCHING, Aug 14 — The Sarawak state government, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), is planning to carry out a third series of cloud seeding operations (OPA) in the state soon.
State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the mitigation measure was aimed at addressing prolonged hot and dry weather conditions that could affect water supply sources and worsen haze in several areas.
“The main focus of OPA Series 3 will be on identified critical dam and water catchment areas, particularly those important for ensuring the continuity of water supply and maintaining dam levels.
“The implementation is subject to the availability of suitable clouds, atmospheric conditions and favourable meteorological factors,” he said in a statement today.
Uggah said the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) would continue conducting technical analysis and assessments to determine the suitable locations, timing and atmospheric conditions before the operation is carried out.
He said the current hot, dry and hazy conditions had increased the risk of open burning and reduced air quality in several districts.
“Prolonged hot and dry weather could affect air quality, water supply sources and increase the risk of forest, peatland and open area fires.
“Therefore, Sarawak JPBN and relevant agencies are continuously strengthening monitoring of weather developments, air pollution levels, hotspots, forest and peatland fires, as well as water supply status,” he added.
As of noon today, nine locations recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, with Serian recording the highest at 182, followed by Kuching (171), Samarahan (170), Sri Aman (162), Sarikei (158), Mukah (151), Bintulu (151), Tebedu (150) and Lundu (102). — Bernama
