BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei Darussalam entered the Northeast Monsoon on Monday (Nov 2), with the season expected to continue until around the end of March 2027, bringing wet weather and potential flooding risks in the coming months.
The Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department said the first three months of the monsoon, from November to January, are typically the wettest period, with frequent rain and unstable weather conditions.
Occasional heavy showers and thundershowers are expected, particularly from night to early morning.
Climatological data show November records an average rainfall of 323mm, while December and January receive averages of 359mm and 321mm respectively. The months typically record 22, 21 and 18 rain days.
The public is advised to remain alert to flooding and flash floods, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas and near riverbanks. Severe flooding may occur when heavy rain coincides with high tide, while prolonged rain lasting more than an hour may trigger landslides and fallen trees.
Strong Northeast Monsoon wind surges may also cause rough sea conditions, with waves reaching up to 3.5 metres and wind speeds of up to 60km per hour. Such conditions pose risks to small vessels and sea-based recreational activities and sports.
The department said weather conditions are expected to become more stable during February and March, with reduced rainfall. Average rainfall is 163mm in February and 143mm in March, with 12 and 13 rain days respectively.
Meanwhile, a very strong El Nino event, which has been present in the Pacific Ocean since June, is expected to persist until around March 2027, with a probability exceeding 83 per cent.
El Nino conditions in Brunei are typically associated with reduced rainfall, higher temperatures and lower relative humidity.
The department’s long-range outlook indicates normal rainfall in November, followed by below-normal rainfall in December and January.
The public, road users and mariners are advised to take precautions against wet-season hazards and remain alert to hot and dry conditions during the latter part of the monsoon.
Residents are also urged to monitor the latest weather forecasts, advisories and warnings issued by the department and make necessary preparations to ensure safety. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
