PUTRAJAYA, April 6 — The government will implement cloud-seeding operations (OPA) from today until Thursday (April 9) to raise water levels of major dams and reduce the impact of the current hot weather in several states.
Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said this measure is being taken following the weather status report as of yesterday, which showed that Kota Setar in Kedah is currently at Level Two (heat wave), with daily maximum temperature exceeding 37°C to 40°C for at least three consecutive days.
Several areas in Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Perak, Pahang, and Johor have also been placed under Level One (alert) status following daily maximum temperatures of between 35°C and 37°C for three consecutive days.
As such, he said the Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability Ministry (NRES), through the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) and in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency and the Royal Malaysian Air Force, will conduct the OPA to address the challenges posed by hot weather conditions in the country.
"The implementation of the OPA, which is scheduled from today until April 9, will specifically focus on major dams situated in Perak, Kedah, Perlis, and Johor to ensure the continued supply of water for domestic and agricultural use,” Arthur said in a statement today.
The main objective of this series of operations is to raise water levels in strategic dams and provide moisture to the ecosystem, thereby reducing the risk of forest and peatland fires.
"However, the NRES would like to emphasise that the success of this operation depends on conducive atmospheric conditions, especially the presence of suitable cumulus clouds and low wind speeds,” he said.
The MetMalaysia technical team will continuously monitor weather conditions to determine the exact target locations that could have the greatest impact on the affected areas.
As such, Arthur advised the public to continue taking precautions by reducing afternoon outdoor activities, ensuring adequate water intake, and using personal protection, including hats, caps, or umbrellas, in the scorching heat.
He also urged them to use water prudently and to avoid open burning to maintain air quality and environmental sustainability.
