PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) has issued a fresh thunderstorm warning for large parts of the country, alerting residents to the likelihood of thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds.
The warning was issued at 2.30pm and will remain in force until 5pm on Wednesday (April 1).
According to the department, the severe weather is expected to affect multiple areas across Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. In Peninsular Malaysia, the affected areas in Kedah are Kota Setar, Pokok Sena, Yan, Pendang, Kuala Muda, Baling, Kulim and Bandar Baharu. The entire state of Penang is also under the warning.
In Perak, the areas expected to be impacted are Kerian, Larut Matang & Selama, Kuala Kangsar, Manjung, Kinta, Perak Tengah, Kampar, Bagan Datuk, Hilir Perak, Batang Padang and Muallim. Several districts in Pahang are also included, namely Cameron Highlands, Jerantut, Kuantan, Bera, Pekan and Rompin.
The warning further extends to the whole of Selangor, as well as the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. The entire states of Negri Sembilan and Melaka are also affected. In Johor, the areas listed are Tangkak, Segamat, Muar, Batu Pahat, Kluang, Pontian, Kulai and Johor Baru.
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In East Malaysia, the affected areas in Sarawak are Sri Aman, Kapit (Song) and Limbang. In Sabah, the Interior division (covering Sipitang, Tenom, Kuala Penyu, Beaufort and Nabawan), the West Coast (specifically Papar), as well as Tawau and the Sandakan area of Kinabatangan, are expected to experience severe weather. The Federal Territory of Labuan is also included in the warning.
METMalaysia has advised the public in these areas to remain vigilant for flash floods, fallen trees and lightning strikes, which are common during such thunderstorms. Motorists are urged to drive carefully due to reduced visibility and potentially slippery roads.
This warning comes as the country experiences typical afternoon convective activity during the inter-monsoon period. No further updates have been issued at the time of writing, but the public is encouraged to monitor METMalaysia’s official website and social media channels for the latest developments.
