Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has urged the public to be cautious when collecting rainwater during this time, due to the haze currently experienced in the country.
The Met Office said the change of monsoon and wind direction is resulting in dust, smoke, and pollutants from the Himalayan region being carried towards the Maldives. This phenomenon is experienced between December and March every year.
The Met Office said this year, the haze is most prominent in the north and central atolls of the Maldives, limiting visibility to about 4-5km in these regions. Visibility is normally recorded above 10km during clear weather.
The Met Office urged the public to exercise precaution during this period, especially those with respiratory problems who are sensitive to dust and smoke. The Met Office also urged the public to be cautious when collecting rainwater during this time.