Wala ka bang napapansin sa iyong mga kapaligiran? Oh, kay dumi na ng hangin…
On Wednesday, many Cebuanos woke up to a foggy morning, but it wasn’t caused by poor eyesight—it was due to the haze blanketing the island.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), they are still identifying the cause of the haze, whether it’s mainly due to air pollution or from the aftermath of the Mt. Kanlaon; however, it is important to note that a “haze” often occurs in areas where there is a high pollution index. PAGASA Mactan Weather Specialist Romeo Aguirre explained that the still air in Cebu has allowed the pollutants to linger, with minimal wind to clear them out. However, he also mentioned that a slight increase in wind is expected over the weekend as a tropical storm moves closer, which may help clear up the haze.
Protect Yourself
Health experts, along with PAGASA, are urging Cebuanos to take precautions by wearing face masks, especially those with respiratory conditions, to avoid inhaling harmful pollutants. The haze is expected to persist until Friday, November 15, 2024, so it’s important to stay mindful of the air quality during this period.
- Stay indoors: When possible, limit outdoor activities, particularly strenuous exercises, to reduce exposure to the haze.
- Hydrate regularly: Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins and stay hydrated in polluted air.
- Use air purifiers: If you’re at home or work, consider using air purifiers to help filter out harmful particles.
- Keep windows closed: Prevent outdoor air from entering your home by keeping windows and doors shut, especially during the peak of the haze.
By taking these simple steps, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of air pollution.