First the floods, then the heat: MetMalaysia warns of challenging months ahead

The flood situation in Perak on October 31, 2023. MetMalaysia expects three to five episodes of prolonged heavy rainfall between November and January 2027. — Picture by Farhan Najib

First Published: Tuesday, 27 Oct 2026 8:49 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 — Malaysia may experience hotter and drier weather towards the end of the 2026/2027 North-east Monsoon (MTL), especially from late January to March next year, following expectations of a Super El Niño phenomenon that could lead to reduced rainfall across the country

Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) National Weather and Earthquake Operations Centre senior director Maqrun Fadzli Mohd Fahmi said these conditions could increase the risk of heatwaves and droughts, especially if rainfall decreases during that period.

He said the El Niño phenomenon is currently in a strong phase and is expected to intensify to a very strong level or Super El Niño towards the end of this year and into next year.

“With reduced rainfall, hot weather or heatwaves often emerge, along with drought due to water shortages caused by insufficient rainfall,” he said as a guest on Bernama TV’s “Fokus 15” programme today.

However, he said the initial phase of the 2026/2027 MTL, which begins today, is expected to bring three to five episodes of prolonged heavy rainfall, particularly between this November and January 2027.

He said that these conditions could heighten the risk of flooding, particularly in the East Coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang, as well as eastern Johor.

“Residents in flood-prone areas should remain vigilant regarding the risk of heavy rain during the early part of the monsoon, while drier conditions towards the end of the monsoon will require preparations for possible hot weather and water shortages,” he said.

Maqrun Fadzli said MetMalaysia monitors weather developments around the clock and will issue heavy rain warnings when necessary to enable relevant agencies and the public to take appropriate precautionary measures.

He advised the public to always refer to latest weather information and warnings from official sources, make early preparations for possible floods and comply with instructions from the authorities, including evacuation orders when necessary.

He also reminded the public to avoid open burning during the dry weather to reduce the risk of localised haze. — Bernama