A PROLONGED spell of intensifying dry weather driven by the current El Nino phenomenon is set to grip Malaysia until early next year, triggering urgent state interventions to mitigate severe water shortages and widespread environmental hazards.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) confirmed that this arid climate is heavily influenced by the Southwest Monsoon, which commenced on May 14 and is projected to remain highly active until this coming September.
National weather experts warned that the prolonged monsoon shifts will drastically suppress rainfall across multiple states, heavily impacting the national water grid and escalating the threat of ecological disasters.
According to a statement issued by MetMalaysia, this situation has the potential to reduce rainfall distribution in several areas, thereby increasing the risk of disruptions to clean water supply.
The department also highlighted that environmental vulnerabilities would spike dramatically during this extended period of low precipitation, heightening the risk of cross-border air pollution.
MetMalaysia stated that these dry weather conditions could also trigger forest and peatland fire incidents, in addition to the risk of widespread haze occurrences.
The department further noted that MetMalaysia is currently monitoring the development of this phenomenon closely to ensure the nation's preparedness remains at the highest level.
In anticipation of escalating climate risks, MetMalaysia has significantly overhauled its early warning distribution networks, conducting over 70 high-level disaster management briefings for critical government bodies.
These strategic sessions involved the Ministry of Economy, the National Economic Action Council (MTEN), and the Fire and Rescue Department at both state and district echelons.
To further safeguard high-risk zones, authorities have established a rolling seven-day forest fire risk forecasting system and have finalized logistical frameworks to execute Cloud Seeding Operations (OPA) provided atmospheric conditions are favourable.
Members of the public are strongly urged to monitor the shifting weather patterns through the official myCuaca mobile application and the MetMalaysia corporate portal.
Citizens are also advised to practice strict water conservation throughout this critical period and to refrain entirely from engaging in open burning activities. - June 14, 2026
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