Wednesday 28 Oct 2026
Male' City experiences haze causing a reduction in air quality and poor visibility. (Sun Photo/Ahmed Saail Ali)
The air quality in Male’ remained poor on Wednesday, with the national weather agency warning the hazy conditions were expected to last through the weekend.
According to IQ Air, the air quality is especially poor over northern Maldives, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) ranging from 158 to 165. These readings fall within the ‘Red Alert’ category, indicating unhealthy air quality that may affect the heart and lungs of the general population and worsen existing health conditions.
The central regions of the Maldives also recorded poor air quality, with an AQI of 126, classified as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’. These conditions may increase the risk of respiratory problems and discomfort, particularly among vulnerable individuals.
In contrast, IQAir data showed that air quality in the southern atolls remained within an acceptable range, with 39 in Addu City and 28 in Fuvahmulah City. Health experts consider an AQI of between 0 and 50 as ideal, as it indicates minimal or no significant health risks.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Maldives Meteorological Service said that northwesterly winds have caused visibility to significantly drop across the northern and central Maldives.
While clear days typically record visibility exceeding 10 kilometers, levels in the northern atolls have dropped to two kilometers.
“Reduced air quality and hazy conditions are forecasted to continue for the next five days, particularly in northern areas,” warned the agency.
Low air quality brings reduced visibility across the central and northern atolls. Take safety precautions! https://t.co/34uFp1tWE1
— Maldives Meteorology (@MetMaldives) October 27, 2026
Air pollution poses health risks to people of all ages, but its effects can be more severe for those with chronic illnesses. Health professionals therefore advise people with respiratory conditions, heart disease or allergies to limit outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality. Wearing face masks is strongly recommended for those who need to go outdoors.
