Dry season ‘won't be so hot' with no El Nino this year
The fire and rescue department said it was making preparations to meet the prolonged dry spells expected, afternoon downpours, and strong winds sometimes accompanied by squalls. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA : Temperatures are expected to remain below average during the coming dry season this year according to weather forecasts, the fire and rescue department said today.
The department said in a statement that meteorological forecasts had indicated there would be no extreme El Niño weather phenomenon this year.
However, the department would remain on the alert for three key weather events – heat, heavy rain and strong winds – during the southwest monsoon season, which lasts until September, Bernama reported.
Fire and rescue director-general Nor Hisham Mohammad, speaking in George Town, said the department was making preparations to meet the prolonged dry spells expected, which would cause high temperatures, intermittent heavy afternoon downpours, and strong winds sometimes accompanied by squalls or tropical storms.
Nor Hisham said the department is on alert for open-fire incidents during dry spells, as well as for rescues related to flash floods and storm-driven winds.
There had been a significant decrease in open-fire reports so far this year, with nearly 3,000 emergency calls up to April, compared to over 9,000 during the same period last year.
However, the department's current concern lies with heavy afternoon rains, particularly during school holidays when many people visit rivers, waterfalls and beaches.
'Members of the public should remain vigilant and follow weather warnings closely. If heavy rain is forecast, leave picnic areas immediately and avoid swimming or engaging in water activities,' Nor Hisham advised.
MetMalaysia has forecast that the southwest monsoon would last from early May until September, bringing steady winds from the southwest.
Humidity will be generally low during this season and rainfall is reduced in many areas. However, heavy showers, strong winds, and thunder squalls remain possible, especially in western Peninsular Malaysia, northern Sarawak and western Sabah, often in the early mornings due to squall lines.
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