KUCHING: The Southwest Monsoon which began on May 19 is expected to continue until mid-September, with less rainfall anticipated during this time.
Sarawak Meteorological Department director Haburi Hamdan said that during this period, more stable atmospheric conditions would result in less rain formation.
“Low rainfall distribution and a high number of days without rainfall are expected during this period,” he told New Sarawak Tribune on Wednesday (June 23) when sharing on the weather forecast for the coming week from June 23 to 29.
However, he noted that there was high potential for squall line phenomena which brings heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and lightning in the early mornings on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and west of Sabah.
Regarding the seven-day weather forecast for Sarawak in particular, he said on mornings from June 23 to 29, rain was expected in a location or two in the state.
As for the afternoons, he said from June 23 to 29, rain or thunderstorms were expected in one or two places in Sarawak.
“With regard to night time, from June 23 to 29, rain or thunderstorms are expected in one or two locations in Sarawak,” said Haburi.
Citing the long-term weather forecast by the Malaysian Meteorological Department, he noted that Sarawak is expected to receive rainfall at an average level of between 200mm to 300mm, except for Kuching, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong, Sarikei, and Sibu Divisions which are expected to receive rainfall slightly below average — between 100mm to 200mm.
He said in July and August this year, Sarawak is expected to receive rainfall at an average level of 150mm to 350mm for each month.
Sharing his advice for the public regarding opening burning during the current dry season, he said members of the public must be aware of the importance of collectively taking care of the environment.
“This is because if the environment is damaged or polluted, all human beings will become the victims,” he said.
Haburi said sensible people would not willingly cause pollution, adding that they would feel guilty as pollution would negatively impact themselves, their families, and their loved ones.
