Penangites, get set for thunderstorms until Tuesday

GEORGE TOWN: Penang residents have been advised to stay vigilant as thunderstorms and frequent rain are forecast across the state until Tuesday.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) weather outlook indicated a trend of wet weather over the three-day period, particularly during afternoons and evenings.

Today, rain is anticipated in several areas in the morning, followed by thunderstorms across most parts in the afternoon and rain continuing into the night.

Tomorrow, wetter conditions are expected with morning showers across most areas, widespread thunderstorms across the state in the afternoon and continuous rain at night.

On Tuesday, morning showers are expected along coastal stretches, with weather conditions tapering off slightly later in the day, though localised thunderstorms and rain remain forecast for the afternoon and evening.

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MetMalaysia said that no Continuous Rain Warning (Alert category) has been issued for Penang so far, as current warnings remain focused on selected districts in Kelantan, Terengganu and Sabah.

Following the forecast, the Penang Fire and Rescue Department operations division urged the public to stay abreast of official weather advisories.

"Residents, especially those living in low-lying and flash flood-prone areas, are advised to avoid high-risk routes during severe weather.

"Members of the public requiring emergency assistance or evacuation are urged to call the 24-hour 999 hotline immediately," it said.

The department said its personnel are on full alert to handle any disaster response throughout the northeast monsoon period to safeguard lives and property.