KUALA LUMPUR: The East Coast states of Peninsular Malaysia, together with the northern and eastern regions of Sabah, are anticipated to experience 20% to 40% more rainfall during this year's Northeast Monsoon season compared with last year.
Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip attributed this increase to the simultaneous occurrence of the Northeast Monsoon and the La Niña phenomenon this year.
"Last year, the Northeast Monsoon coincided with the El Niño phase, typically resulting in drier-than-usual weather.
"This year, however, La Niña has taken over, and most long-term forecasts suggest we will receive 20% to 40% more rainfall than last year," he said after appearing as a guest on Bernama Radio on Thursday (Nov 7).
Mohd Hisham further noted that the latest studies indicate the La Niña phenomenon in Malaysia is expected to remain weak to moderate and should not significantly affect rainfall patterns.
"Current models indicate that La Niña is not as strong as initially predicted. A few months ago, it was expected to reach moderate strength, but it now appears to be weakening. As such, there may be no significant impact," he explained.
Nevertheless, Mohd Hisham emphasised that Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, as the chairman of the National Disaster Management Committee, has reminded all disaster management agencies to remain prepared for any eventuality. – Bernama
