KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia could experience daily maximum temperatures of up to 40°C between March and May next year if a strong El Niño develops towards the end of this year or early 2027, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
Its director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the country's hottest period typically falls between March and May each year.
"Based on historical meteorological records, daily maximum temperatures can exceed 38°C during this period when Malaysia experiences a strong El Niño episode, as seen in 1997/1998 and 2016/2017.
"With a strong El Niño forecast and the increasingly evident effects of global warming, temperatures of around 40°C could potentially occur in Malaysia between March and May 2027," he told Berita Harian.
Mohd Hisham said the areas most at risk of extreme heat are the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia, the inland areas of Kelantan and Pahang and the inner regions of Sabah and Sarawak.
Commenting on the ongoing heatwave affecting parts of Europe, he said Malaysia's situation differs because the country has a tropical climate with consistently warm weather throughout the year, whereas Europe, the United States and China are currently experiencing summer, when temperatures are typically higher than in other seasons.
He warned the prolonged heat could have far-reaching effects on public health, water supply, agriculture, energy production and the environment.
"The risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke is expected to increase, particularly among the elderly, children, people with chronic illnesses and those who work outdoors.
"Hot weather can also lead to dehydration and increase the risk of hospital admissions and heat-related deaths," he said.
Mohd Hisham added that if the continued heat is accompanied by reduced rainfall, dam water levels could decline, affecting domestic water supply, agriculture and industry, while also reducing hydroelectric power generation capacity.
He said extended hot and dry conditions could also heighten the risk of forest fires, particularly in the peatland areas.
He added that uncontrolled fires could trigger haze, affecting air quality, public health and daily activities.
Mohd Hisham advised the public to take precautionary measures by staying hydrated, reducing outdoor activities during peak afternoon heat, avoiding open burning, and using water and electricity prudently.
He said MetMalaysia would continue to strengthen collaboration with government agencies by sharing climate data, coordinate meetings, organise weather briefings and provide extreme weather reports.
"Weather information and warnings are continuously updated via MetMalaysia's official website, social media platforms and the MyCuaca application to ensure the public receives accurate, timely and transparent weather and climate information," he said. - NST
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