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Southwest monsoon spreading haze into Marianas
Multiple wildfires across Indonesia and Papua New Guinea are being blamed for the haze across the Marianas.
Citing data from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, the CNMI Emergency Operations Center said yesterday that southwest winds across Western Micronesia and the Marianas have brought a plume of haze to the region that will likely persist for the next few days.
“Satellite imagery shows numerous smoke plumes from fires across portions of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Model data suggests these fires are the source of the haze affecting the Marianas,” the EOC advisory stated.
Although wet weather is expected through midweek across the Marianas, no change to the wind flow pattern is expected. As a result, this diffuse haze is expected to continue through at least midweek, the EOC said.
The haze is expected to reduce visibility at times and may cause some minor respiratory issues. Those with respiratory issues should limit their time outdoors.
The Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. advises residents with respiratory issues and allergies to be alert for the haze outdoors as it may have an effect on them. If you experience difficulty in breathing or encounter allergies, proceed to the emergency room or call 234-8950.
Residents and visitors are advised to stay tuned to their radio stations and local media sources for the latest updates from NWS and the CNMI EOC. For more information contact the CNMI EOC at (670) 237-8000 or on HF single side band radio at frequency 5.205.0. (HSEM)
