KUALA LUMPUR, May 11 — The southwest monsoon is set to start on Thursday last until September, following consistent winds from the southwest, the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) announced today.
MetMalaysia director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip in a statement said low humidity levels during this period would usually result in reduced cloud formation over most areas, meaning fewer rainy days and drier conditions nationwide.
However, he cautioned that heavy rain, strong winds and thunderstorms may still occur in certain areas, including western Peninsular Malaysia, northern Sarawak, and western Sabah, especially in the early morning due to squall lines.
“These are squall lines that form over the Strait of Malacca and eastern South China Sea and move inland as a result of wind convergence. These squall lines can persist for several hours,” he said.
Hisham noted that at the peak of the monsoon between July and September, localised and transboundary haze could occur if open burning is not controlled.
He advised the public to avoid open burning and save water during this time.
Weather updates are available on the MetMalaysia website and social media channels, myCuaca app, and the 1-300-221-638 hotline.
