KUALA LUMPUR – The southwest monsoon is expected to begin on May 15 and will continue until September, said Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Director-General Muhammad Helmi Abdullah.
In a statement today, he said lower rainfall is expected to occur in most places during the period.
“Usually during the southwest monsoon, the wind blows consistently from the southwest with lower air humidity and the more stable atmospheric condition will cause less cloud formation.
“As a result, the number of days without rain will dramatically increase in several places nationwide,” he added.
However, Helmi said heavy rains with strong winds and lightning will still occur, especially in the early morning on the peninsula’s west coast and west Sabah following the formation of squall lines.
A squall line is a fast-moving system of thunderstorms that form in a long, narrow line as a result of wind intensity, which can last up to several hours.
“During the southwest monsoon, the haze phenomenon may occur if open burning is not controlled, especially from July to September.
“As such, open burning must be avoided to reduce the effects of haze and environmental pollution,” he said, adding that the public is also advised to use water sparingly throughout this period.
Up-to-date weather information can be obtained from MetMalaysia’s website, the myCuaca mobile app, and the department’s official social media, or the public can call the MetMalaysia hotline at 1-300-22-1638 for further enquiries. – Bernama, May 9, 2023
