Kuala Lumpur hazed over

Kuala Lumpur hazed over

MALAYSIA: Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur was shrouded on Monday in a smoky blanket of haze caused by a prolonged dry spell, as well as smoke from forest fires in Indonesia, environmental officers said.

Visibility levels in Sepang district, where Kuala Lumpur International Airport is located, were dangerously low at 6 kilometers, a spokesman for the Meteorological Department said.

Normal visibility levels are at 10 kilometers, she said, adding, "This happens every year, and it comes with a natural weather change."

Satellite imaging by the Department of Environment (DOE) had earlier in the day detected 38 hot spots -- areas showing high levels of heat -- on Sumatra and 16 on Borneo island. -- DPA