PETALING JAYA: The ongoing climate shift from El Nino to a weak La Nina phase this year is expected to bring slightly wet weather mainly to the northern states in Peninsular Malaysia.
Malaysian Meteorological Department director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the shift is also expected to affect the interiors of Perak, Pahang and Kelantan.
He said the current hot and dry weather is a common occurrence between February and May annually.
“Generally, La Nina brings more rain while the weather can be dry during El Nino.
“Last year, the country faced hot and dry weather towards the end of the northeast monsoon, also between February and May.
“As a result, the country was affected by a heatwave with temperatures rising above 37°C for three consecutive days.
“Water levels at dams in the affected areas also declined at the same time,” Mohd Hisham said.
However, he said the intermonsoon this year is not expected to be as hot as last year.
According to the department’s latest analysis, he said, the southern states of the peninsula and Sabah and Sarawak are likely to experience continuous rain between March 18 and 21.
Mohd Hisham said open burning should be avoided, adding that the public should take steps to conserve water during the hot and dry season.
“People should limit outdoor activities and heed medical advice from the Health Ministry to maintain their well-being,” he said.
The northeast monsoon season is at its tail-end and lower rainfall is expected in the weeks after.
