SHAH ALAM, June 14 — The Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) is stepping up preparedness measures as the El Nino phenomenon is expected to affect the country’s weather conditions in the coming months, with its impact potentially continuing until early 2027.
Its director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the phenomenon is expected to bring hotter and drier conditions than usual, particularly during the southwest monsoon, which began on May 14 and is expected to continue until September.
The prolonged dry spell could reduce rainfall in several areas, potentially increasing the risk of water shortages, forest and peatland fires, and haze incidents.
“MetMalaysia is closely monitoring the development of the El Nino phenomenon, which is expected to influence the country’s weather patterns in the near future.
“As a result, the country may experience hotter and drier weather conditions, especially during the southwest monsoon period,” he said in a statement today.
Hisham added that MetMalaysia has strengthened its delivery of weather information and early warnings to the government, relevant agencies, and the public as part of its preparedness efforts.
It has also conducted more than 70 briefings, meetings, and engagement programmes on hot and dry weather conditions at the national, state, and district levels as of June.
“These include briefings with the Economy Ministry, the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry, the National Economic Action Council, the Agriculture Department, as well as presentations during State and District Disaster Management Committee meetings nationwide,” he said.
MetMalaysia is also providing up to seven-day forecasts on forest and peatland fire risks, issuing haze forecasts and is ready to assist in cloud seeding operations if required and if weather conditions permit.
“We remain committed to providing accurate and timely weather information to help the country make early preparations in facing any risks arising from extreme weather conditions,” Hisham said.
Members of the public have been advised to obtain the latest weather updates through the myCuaca app and MetMalaysia’s official website, practise responsible water use, and avoid open burning.
