ALOR SETAR: Kedahans have been urged to limit outdoor activities and reduce exposure to direct sunlight following the hot and dry weather currently affecting most parts of the country.
State housing, local government and health committee chairman Mansor Zakaria said that based on information from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the Padang Terap district is experiencing heatwave conditions with temperatures between 37℃ and 40℃.
"The weather in Kedah is hotter than other states because we have not received rain for more than a month. I would like to advise the public to reduce outdoor activities, including visiting others during Aidilfitri or doing recreational activities.
"I am worried that people may be exposed to high temperatures that could cause heat stroke. Drink plenty of plain water to avoid dehydration, and do not drink sweet drinks because they will make you feel thirstier,” he said when contacted on Monday (March 23).
Mansor also urged the public not to carry out open burning, as it could worsen the situation.
"The current dry weather can cause fires to spread quickly. The water levels in rivers and dams in the state are also decreasing, so avoid wasting water.
"There are areas facing water shortages. Store enough water to use only when necessary because when there is no water, it affects all of us," he said.
In a statement earlier, MetMalaysia said that 14 areas in Peninsular Malaysia are at Level One (alert), including several districts in Kedah such as Baling, Sik, Pendang, Pokok Sena, Kubang Pasu, Langkawi, Kuala Muda, and Bandar Baharu; while Padang Terap was at Level Two (heatwave). – Bernama
