Haze affects Metro Cebu

Local

THE state weather bureau has reported a "consistent" light haze over Metro Cebu since Wednesday, November 13.

Alfredo Quiblat, chief of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in the Visayas, said in an interview with MyTV Cebu on Thursday, November 14, that the haze was first observed around 8 a.m. on Wednesday.

Quiblat added that the haze may have potential impacts on airport operations.

"We provide this information for airport safety operations, especially concerning the safe takeoff and landing of airplanes," he said in Cebuano.

Quiblat emphasized that reduced visibility could pose risks for pilots.

"When we say zero visibility, the pilot's view is hazy—that’s dangerous," he added.

He noted that the visibility level is currently at 7,000 kilometers, which falls short of the usual 10,000 kilometers or more.

Quiblat added that if visibility drops below 5,000 kilometers, he said, it would be advisable to restrict aircraft operations for safety reasons.

Although it is the responsibility of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to determine the specific cause of the haze, Quiblat shared some possibilities.

He said it could be due to dust particles, smoke, or volcanic sulfur dioxide emissions.

He also suggested that the wind’s current northwest direction could be carrying emissions from Mount Kanlaon, which has been releasing ashfall affecting nearby cities and towns in Negros Island.

Meanwhile, a representative from the EMB said that tests are underway to identify the haze's cause.

The agency also advised vulnerable groups, especially those with comorbidities, to wear face masks.(MyTVCebu)