Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a stark warning, forecasting temperatures in several regions of Malaysia to soar above 40 degrees Celsius next year. This prediction is driven by an anticipated Super El Ni±o, expected to be the most intense on record.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MetMalaysia's director-general, Dr. Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip, outlined that the onset of this phenomenon's effects would likely be towards the end of the Northeast Monsoon, particularly affecting the northern states of the Peninsula. The peak of this extreme heat is expected to align with the equinox period between March and April next year, further exacerbating the temperature rise.
Dr. Mohd Hisham highlighted that the highest daily temperature recorded in Malaysia was 40.1 degrees Celsius in Chuping, Perlis, during the Super El Ni±o of 1997/1998. With the upcoming phenomenon predicted to surpass its predecessors in strength, potentially compounded by global warming, temperatures might exceed the previous record, reaching 40.5 or even 41 degrees Celsius.
He further noted that the extreme heat could coincide with the Muslim fasting month and Hari Raya celebrations, urging the public to minimize outdoor activities for safety and health reasons. The equinox period, characterized by the sun being directly overhead, combined with reduced cloud cover, could lead to adverse health effects due to direct heat exposure.
Currently, Malaysia is experiencing ordinary El Ni±o conditions, which are expected to intensify gradually, reaching a Super El Ni±o stage by the end of the year. Dr. Mohd Hisham recalled previous Super El Ni±o events in 1982/1983, 1997/1998, and 2015/2016, which also resulted in exceptionally high temperatures across the country.
He explained that Super El Ni±o phenomena are typically caused by rising sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, which subsequently alter global atmospheric conditions, leading to significantly reduced rainfall, dry weather, and an increased risk of high-intensity haze from open burning.
Dr. Mohd Hisham mentioned that historical records indicate up to 70 continuous dry days in northern areas such as Langkawi and Alor Setar during previous events. A similar prolonged dry spell is anticipated this time, prompting public advisories for early preparations.
He also warned of a potential severe water supply crisis next year due to the extended dry weather delaying rainfall and depleting dam levels, particularly in states currently facing water supply challenges. Past experiences during strong Super El Ni±o episodes saw complete depletion of dams in Melaka, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Finally, Dr. Mohd Hisham urged the public to rely on official weather information through MetMalaysia's platforms and avoid spreading unverified information on social media.