Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) is closely monitoring the development of the El Ni±o phenomenon, which is expected to begin influencing the country's weather conditions in the near future and may persist until early 2027. MetMalaysia Director-General Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip stated that the phenomenon is expected to bring hotter and drier-than-normal weather, particularly during the Southwest Monsoon, which began on May 14 and is forecast to continue until September this year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohd Hisham highlighted that these conditions could potentially reduce rainfall in several areas, increasing the risk of water shortages, forest and peatland fires, as well as haze. 'As a preparedness measure, MetMalaysia has strengthened the dissemination of weather information and early warnings to the government, relevant agencies and the public,' he said in a statement today.
He further elaborated that as of June 2026, MetMalaysia had conducted more than 70 briefings, meetings, and engagement programmes related to hot and dry weather conditions at the national, state, and district levels. Key engagement sessions included briefings for the Economy Ministry, the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES), the National Economic Action Council (MTEN), the Agriculture Department, and presentations at state and district disaster management committee meetings nationwide.
MetMalaysia also provides forest and peatland fire risk forecasts up to seven days ahead, issues haze forecasts, and stands ready to assist in the implementation of Cloud Seeding Operations should the need arise and weather conditions permit. 'MetMalaysia remains committed to providing accurate and timely weather information to help the nation make early preparations for any risks associated with extreme weather,' Dr Mohd Hisham added.
The public is encouraged to obtain the latest weather information through the myCuaca application and MetMalaysia's official website, use water prudently, and avoid open burning activities.