The update on Sept 2 said prevailing winds were pushing cloud groups towards the South China Sea. Seeding them would risk producing rain away from the areas facing haze and low water reserves, so any flight remains subject to MetMalaysia’s assessment.

NADMA’s plan covers eight Sarawak dam areas — Batang Ai, Bakun, Murum, Bengoh, Gerugu, Assyakirin, Sika and Matang — with MetMalaysia and the Royal Malaysian Air Force involved in the operation. At 4pm on Sept 2, Serian and Kuching recorded hazardous API readings of 325 and 309 respectively, giving the proposed operation an immediate public-health context.

There was no confirmation in the latest reports that a seeding flight had taken off or been completed. The operation may proceed within the planned window only if later cloud and wind conditions are suitable.