In Malaysia, the hot and dry season has commenced earlier this year compared to the past two years, largely attributed to the ongoing El Nino weather phenomenon. High temperature alerts have been issued for 22 locations across 8 states thus far in the year.
This marks a contrast to previous years where such advisories typically began in March for both 2022 and 2023, as per an analysis of notices from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
ALSO READ> MULTIMEDIA: Fighting On Two Fronts
The rising temperatures are prompting adjustments among residents, with some individuals feeling the impact in their daily routines. Muhammad Mahathir Mohd Firdaus, a horse stable marketing manager in Langkawi, expressed discomfort due to prolonged outdoor exposure.
For Mahathir, whose job requires engaging with clients on horse rides lasting one to two hours, the intensifying heat has led to light dizziness and headaches. Additionally, he shared that his children fell ill with fever and coughs following the abrupt shift in weather.
Mahathir during his horse riding under the hot weather.
Mohd Nurul Hasri, a civil servant in Alor Setar, Kedah, mentioned restricting his children’s outdoor activities amidst the sweltering daytime temperatures. He emphasized hydration and limited sun exposure until cooler hours post-6pm.
Perlis’ Beseri assemblyman Haziq Asyraf noted the heightened intensity of this year’s heat wave compared to previous seasons. As rain eludes the region, temperatures in Beseri soar to 39C during afternoon hours, affecting daily routines and outdoor activities.
Beseri assemblyman Haziq Asyraf advised the public, to be mindful of the weather and minimize time spent outdoors except when necessary.
El Nino and La Nina, influenced by oceanic currents, dictate weather patterns globally. El Nino raises sea temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, resulting in hot and dry conditions in Malaysia.
During past El Nino occurrences, regions including Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore faced haze from peat soil fires in neighboring countries. Recent years have witnessed extreme climate events globally, exacerbated by climate change and intensified by El Nino.
MetMalaysia forecasts the current El Nino to persist into the second quarter of the year, with increased likelihood of prolonged dry spells. Recent alerts have focused on northern states of peninsular Malaysia, indicating the prevalence of high temperatures.
Baling, Kedah, reported the highest number of heat alerts, with Sik and Langkawi following closely along with Beaufort, Sabah. Communities are advised to remain vigilant and prioritize health amidst the challenging weather conditions sparked by El Nino.
