Sabah might see less rain during coming north-east monsoon

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is advised to ensure water supplies are not disrupted as meteorologists anticipate reduced rainfall during the coming north-east monsoon season.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali(pic), said a 20% reduction in rainfall was expected during the north-east monsoon season, beginning in November 2023 and ending in March 2024.

He said the state government should prepare for potential disruptions to the water supply.

"This is due to concerns about a reduced amount of rainfall, which could affect the availability of raw water in reservoirs and rivers that serve as sources for water treatment plants," he said in a statement Sunday (Oct 22).

Armizan said the state government should get a more detailed report from METMalaysia to identify areas that are expected to be significantly affected by the drought conditions.

"This is crucial for ensuring early plans are in place to address the risk of water supply disruptions in the affected areas," he added.

METMalaysia disclosed the weather forecast for the northeast monsoon during the 2nd Disaster Management Committee Meeting for the year 2023, held on Oct 17.

It said that while rain with a risk of flooding is expected in most states, Sabah would experience a reduction in rainfall, although rain and thunderstorms would still occur in some areas.

Despite the forecast, Armizan said related agencies, including response teams and assets such as Temporary Evacuation Centres, must remain on high alert.