The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has warned of a monsoon surge expected to affect the country from Jan 1 to Jan 5, bringing the risk of prolonged heavy rain and hazardous sea conditions.
MetMalaysia director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the weather phenomenon could result in continuous heavy rainfall in Sarawak, along with strong winds and rough seas over the South China Sea throughout the period.
He advised the public to stay updated through MetMalaysia’s official website, social media platforms and the myCuaca mobile application for the latest verified weather information.
In a separate advisory, MetMalaysia issued a Category Three warning for strong winds and rough seas in the northeastern waters of Condore and northwestern Reef North until Friday. Wind speeds in these areas are expected to exceed 60km/h, with wave heights of more than 4.5m.
“These conditions are dangerous for all coastal and maritime activities, including operations at offshore oil platforms,” the department said.
MetMalaysia also issued a Category One warning for strong winds and rough seas affecting the southeastern waters of Samui, Tioman, northern Bunguran, southeastern and northern Reef North, Layang-Layang and western Palawan, also until Friday.
In these areas, winds of between 40km/h and 50km/h are forecast, with waves reaching up to 3.5m, posing risks to small vessels as well as marine leisure and sports activities.
