BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei Darussalam has officially entered the Northeast Monsoon season as of Tuesday (Nov 18), with the wettest period expected between December and January, the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD) said in a press release Tuesday.
The first two months of the monsoon, also known as the Musim Tengkujuh, typically bring the highest rainfall and the most rainy days of the year, with December averaging 359mm of rainfall over 21 rainy days, and January receiving 321mm across 18 days.
During this period, the country is prone to unsettled weather, including occasional heavy rain or thunderstorms, especially from night to early morning.
BDMD warned of elevated risks of flooding and flash floods, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas or near riverbanks. Severe flooding may occur if heavy rainfall coincides with high tide, while prolonged downpours of over an hour may also trigger landslides and fallen trees.
Strong Northeasterly cold surges may raise wave heights up to 3.5 metres and push wind speeds to 60km/h, posing significant danger to small vessels and sea-based recreational activities.
Rainfall activity is expected to ease during the second half of the monsoon (February–March), with February averaging 163mm of rainfall and March 143mm.
BDMD noted that the ongoing La Nina phenomenon is likely to persist into early 2026, bringing wetter-than-usual conditions for Brunei. A transition to ENSO-neutral is projected between January and March with a 61 per cent probability.
The public, motorists and mariners are advised to stay alert and take early precautions during the active weather period. BDMD will continue to monitor conditions and issue advisories when necessary. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
