KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 (Bernama) – Hot and dry weather is expected to affect most areas, particularly in the northern Peninsula, including Perak, as well as Pahang and Kelantan, from this month until May.

Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Director-General Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the country is now in the final phase of the Northeast Monsoon, which is expected to end by mid-March. During this period, cloud cover and rainfall will decrease.

“A prolonged absence of rain can lead to hotter and drier conditions than usual.

“This hot and dry weather pattern is a recurring phenomenon that happens annually from February to May,” he said in a statement today.

Mohd Hisham added that during this period, daily maximum temperatures could exceed 35°C in the early afternoon.

He noted that the highest temperature recorded nationwide on Feb 11 was 36.1°C at Felda Teloi Kanan in Baling, Kedah.

Heatwaves and localised haze are also possible, though the situation is expected to be less severe than last year due to the influence of a weak La Niña, which is forecast to persist until mid-year.

Given the hot and dry conditions, the public is advised to conserve water, avoid open burning, and limit time spent outdoors.

MetMalaysia continues to monitor weather conditions nationwide and urges the public to stay informed on weather updates and warnings via its official website, MyCuaca app, and social media channels.

Meanwhile, in its significant weather forecast issued at 12:30 pm, MetMalaysia warned of thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds in Sarawak for three days starting Feb 17.

“Based on weather model analyses, wind convergence is expected in Sarawak from Feb 17 to 19, potentially triggering prolonged thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds in the region,” Mohd Hisham said. — Bernama