Hot, dry weather expected to persist until mid-September

The Meteorological Department says this is due to the active phase of the southwest monsoon.

People have been looking for ways to cool down as most areas experience hot and dry weather. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: The hot and dry weather in most areas in Peninsular Malaysia is expected to persist throughout August until mid-September.

According to the Meteorological Department’s Long-Term Weather Forecast for August until March 2019, this was due to the active phase of the southwest monsoon.

“Throughout August, most places in Peninsular Malaysia will receive normal rainfall between 150mm and 250mm except in several places in Perak (central to south), Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.

“However, heavy rains and thunderstorms with strong winds can occur in the waters off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia early in the morning, following the formation of a squall line known as the ‘Sumatras’,” the report said.

In September, most places in the peninsula are expected to receive normal rainfall ranging from 150mm to 250mm.

Perlis, Kedah and Penang, as well as some areas in the interior of the peninsula are expected to receive rainfall between 250mm and 350mm during the month.

In October, the transition of the monsoon is expected to start with rains, thunderstorms and strong winds to occur in late afternoon and early evening especially in the west coast states; in the interior of the peninsula; the west coast of Sabah; as well as west and central Sarawak.

“This phenomenon will likely see some places in Peninsular Malaysia such as Kedah, Penang, northern Perak, as well as the interiors of Kelantan and Pahang receiving rainfall beyond the normal levels of 400mm,” the report said. - FMT