AIR POLLUTION INDEX (API)

The API for Manjung earlier in the day was recorded as 183 but the 8.00 p.m. news reported that it had dropped to 163. I have looked up information about API as well as AQI to share with readers.
Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measure of the quantity of harmful particles and chemicals in the air. The index is used by weather forecasters to indicate the purity of the air on a given day. The higher the index, the smoggier (see smog) and more polluted the air. AQI is a standardized indicator of the air quality in a given location. It measures mainly ground-level ozone and particulates (except the pollen count), but may also include sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.
The air quality in Malaysia is reported as the API or Air Pollution Index. Four of the index's pollutant components (i.e., carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide) are reported in ppmv but PM10 particulate matter is reported in μg/m³.
Unlike the American AQI, the index number can exceed 500. Above 500, a state of emergency is declared in the reporting area. Usually, this means that non-essential government services are suspended, and all ports in the affected area closed. There may also be a prohibition on private sector commercial and industrial activities in the reporting area excluding the food sector.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_quality
http://www.answers.com/topic/air-quality-index