The Malaysian Insight

SABAH has recorded 27 wildfires today, the highest number of cases in one day since dry spells hit the state early last month.

The air pollution index (API) in Kota Kinabalu and Papar today recorded unhealthy levels at 145 and 120, respectively. 

The state Fire and Rescue Department said the number of reports was up until 2pm today. 

“Ten were from Kota Kinabalu, Tuaran (5), Lintas (2) and 10 elsewhere,” the department said. 

A state Meterological Department spokesman said the dry spell was expected to end by next month. 

Temperatures in the state peaked at 33°C in the afternoon. 

The state Water Department, however, has yet to announce any water rationing plan despite water levels in Sabah dams fast depleting. 

On February 25, its director, Amarjit Singh, had announced the state had more than 90 days worth of water supply. 

He had also said cloud-seeding operations would only be undertaken should the situation become dire. – March 16, 2019.