MALAYSIA could face prolonged hot and dry conditions, reduced rainfall and a higher risk of haze as El Nino strengthens and is expected to affect the country through March next year, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) said.
METMalaysia director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said rainfall could decline in several areas, particularly Sabah and parts of the peninsula, while maximum daily temperatures were expected to rise, especially in March and April.
“El Nino is expected to begin affecting the country’s weather and may continue until March 2027,” he told Utusan Malaysia.
He said prolonged dry conditions could increase the risk of water shortages, forest and peatland fires, open burning and haze.
“The situation could potentially increase the risk of water supply shortages, forest and peatland fires as well as haze if dry conditions persist.
“The phenomenon typically causes drier-than-usual conditions in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, due to changes in atmospheric patterns and rainfall distribution.
“For Malaysia, moderate or strong El Nino conditions could result in below-average rainfall in Sabah and Sarawak, while the peninsula could also experience drier conditions during certain periods.
“Prolonged dry conditions could also increase water demand as temperatures rise, particularly in the domestic, agricultural and economic sectors that depend on water resources,” he said.
Mohd Hisham said the combination of reduced rainfall and higher temperatures could prolong hot and dry spells, increasing the likelihood of forest and peatland fires that could contribute to haze.
METMalaysia is strengthening weather monitoring and information dissemination, including seven-day forecasts of forest and peatland fire risks and haze forecasts to assist relevant agencies in preparing for the conditions.
The public has also been advised to use water prudently and avoid open burning during periods of hot and dry weather. - September 30, 2026
