The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to take precautionary measures as haze continues to affect air quality across the Maldives, with several islands recording unhealthy to very unhealthy air quality levels.

According to the air quality update released by HPA on 19 February 2026, Kulhudhuffushi City and Kaafu Vilimalé recorded severely polluted (red alert) levels, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 163 in both locations. In Shaviyani Funadhoo, air quality was recorded at an AQI level of 68, categorised as moderate.

Further south, Dhaalu Kudahuvadhoo recorded an AQI reading of 119, placing air quality in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category, while Addu City recorded an AQI level of 110. Fuvahmulah City recorded an AQI reading of 82, which also falls within the moderate category.

HPA said individuals in areas recording unhealthy and very unhealthy air quality levels face a higher risk of short-term health effects, particularly children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with existing respiratory or heart conditions. The agency advised residents to limit outdoor activities, wear face masks when outdoors, keep doors and windows closed where possible, and use air purifiers to reduce indoor exposure.

The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET) has reported that haze conditions have significantly reduced visibility in several parts of the country, with visibility in Malé dropping to as low as two kilometres earlier this week. MET said haze intensity has increased across the northern and central atolls, with hazy conditions expected to persist nationwide over the coming days.

Health authorities warned that short-term exposure to polluted air may cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs, headaches, dizziness, coughing and breathing difficulties, and could worsen existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.