GEORGE TOWN: Mornings in the northern states can feel as cool as a hill resort these days – a stark contrast to the typically hot and dry days of the southwest monsoon.
The observation came from Universiti Sains Malaysia’s atmospheric physicist Assoc Prof Dr Yusri Yusup, who said recent readings from his monitoring station have shown temperatures of between 22°C and 24°C.
During the southwest monsoon, which typically lasts from April to September, the average morning temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C.
“It is much cooler than usual. While this monsoon is usually hot and humid rather than dry, some rainfall is expected though not as heavy as in other seasons,” said Yusri.
He added that while there is no indication of a La Niña phenomenon, the increased rainfall has helped reduce the risk of drought and haze, which are typically common during this time of year.
“The unexpected rainfall has brought some relief, improved air quality and eased water supply concerns.
“Usually at this time of the year, the northern states experience hot, dry weather with a heightened risk of haze due to open burning and transboundary pollution,” he said.
A check with the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) shows that the southwest monsoon winds are blowing steadily across the region, consistent with the seasonal weather pattern.
However, only a few hotspots have been detected in Sumatra, Indonesia, suggesting relatively low fire activity for now.
The cool weather, however, does not benefit durian and padi farmers.
Kie Kim Hwa, 53, said the current weather is not ideal for durian trees that are already bearing fruit.
“It may be helpful while waiting for new shoots to grow, as the rainfall supports healthy shoot development.
“However, once the trees begin to bear fruit, too much rain can reduce the quality of the durians,” he said.
He added that rain would not affect durian trees on higher ground as much, but for those on lower ground, excess moisture could cause the fruit to become watery.
“Whatever the weather, balance is key to healthy durian trees. They need sufficient sunlight and water to grow and produce good-quality fruit,” he said.
Padi farmer Abdul Aziz Hashim, 43, from Kepala Batas, said his crop is in the flowering stage now.
“This is a crucial phase in the crop’s development, as pollination is taking place. However, if it rains during this period, the quality of the padi may be affected,” he said.
He said the rain could disrupt pollination, as the pollen would become wet and might not reach the flower’s stigma.
This, he added, could lead to poor grain development, as the grains might not fully form.
Abdul Aziz also said that if the weather turns hot again soon, some recovery may occur, but a portion of the crop is likely to remain affected.
According to the Malaysian Meterological Department, Perlis, Kedah and Kelantan are projected to experience thunderstorms for the coming week, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 33°C.
Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor and Kuala Lumpur, meanwhile, will see drier days ahead with temperatures predicted to soar up to 35°C.
