S.O.S! Is Malaysia running out of water?
Based on the latest monitoring by the Malaysian Meteorological Department, drought has already started in northern Kedah and Perlis, with some areas not receiving rain for several weeks, as reported by The Star.
Photo: Malay Mail
MET Malaysia Director-general, Jailan Simon said that the water level at certain dams are much lower than normal, as the country is in the second phase of the northeast monsoon, which is expected to end in March.
The Northeast Monsoon would be the period with the least rainfall throughout Malaysia, except in west Sarawak and Sabah.
No rain or less rainfall over a long period of time can result in dry weather, especially in the northern states of the Peninsula (Perlis, Kedah, Penang and northern Perak as well as Kelantan and northern Terengganu on the east coast).
Jailan also added that during this period, Kedah and Perlis was expected to receive a rainfall deficit of between 20% and 40% compared to normal.
In February, Penang, northern Perak, northern Kelantan and northern Terengganu as well as east Sabah, were expected to receive a rainfall deficit of between 20% to 40% compared to the normal amount.
The hot weather condition in most areas during this period is expected to ease, starting from the end of April with the beginning of the monsoon transition, and will bring more rain to the whole country.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department will regularly monitor weather conditions throughout the country and updates of the current status of the heatwave and the map is available on the department’s website.
MET Malaysia also reminded the public to be kept informed of the latest weather updates through its website myCuaca application and MetMalaysia social media.
Malaysians, we advise you to save water, ok!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
