Sarawak: The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) has taken a proactive stance by forming a Special Operations Team at the State Disaster Command Centre (SDCC). This team will focus on monitoring and coordinating the impact of declining water levels across the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Deputy Premier and SDMC chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas announced that the committee, along with relevant agencies, is considering a cloud seeding operation between September 3 and 5. This move is part of the measures to prepare for a prolonged hot and dry spell. The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) is currently assessing suitable conditions for cloud seeding, with a meeting scheduled on September 1 to decide on the feasibility of the operation.
Previous cloud seeding efforts conducted in May and June reportedly had a positive impact on dam water levels, as noted by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB). The recent virtual coordination meeting included representatives from MetMalaysia, SEB, the Welfare Department, Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Malaysian Armed Forces, and all Resident offices.
Uggah highlighted that the measures are in response to forecasts predicting intensified El Ni±o conditions in Sarawak from October to December, possibly persisting until April 2027. The El Ni±o-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) outlook indicates a moderate intensity currently, with a potential escalation to strong or even 'Super' El Ni±o intensity between September 2026 and January 2027.
El Ni±o is a global climate phenomenon with impacts felt across various regions. While the precise extent and duration of its effects remain uncertain, Sarawak is taking early steps to mitigate potential impacts, particularly the risk of prolonged dry conditions and reduced water levels.
Regarding general water supply preparedness, Uggah mentioned that the Welfare Department and the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) are actively providing water assistance to affected communities. Resident Offices and all agencies have been instructed to review their preparedness, focusing on water supplies, logistics, and resources to ensure timely assistance if conditions deteriorate.
Uggah also noted that below-average rainfall is expected in the southwestern parts of the state until December, further exacerbated by the ongoing Southwest Monsoon, which is projected to last until September.