HOT and dry conditions are expected to prevail across most parts of the country, particularly in the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia, until Jan 18, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
In a statement issued yesterday, MetMalaysia said analyses of multiple weather forecast models indicate that overall rainfall will remain low during this period.
However, the department said short-duration thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds may still occur, especially in the western parts of the peninsula and in Sarawak, mainly in the late afternoon and early evening.
Members of the public have been advised to remain vigilant despite the generally dry weather conditions.
For Penang, MetMalaysia’s state-level forecast shows that weather conditions from Jan 13 to 19 are expected to be generally sunny and dry.
Temperatures in the state are forecast to range between 25°C and 32°C, with only isolated showers expected in certain areas on specific days.
MetMalaysia said overall rainfall in Penang during the period is forecast to remain low.
The public has been advised to monitor the latest weather updates through MetMalaysia’s official website, its verified social media platforms, or by downloading the “myCuaca” mobile application.
Meanwhile, water resource management in Penang has come under close attention amid the continued low rainfall.
According to information published on the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) website, water levels at the state’s major dams are currently at safe levels.
The Air Itam Dam is at about 95.2% capacity, the Teluk Bahang Dam at around 99%, and the Mengkuang Dam at 92.8%.
PBAPP said the healthy dam levels are largely due to heavy rainfall recorded at dam catchment areas between September and November 2025.
The rainfall was attributed mainly to the Northeast Monsoon and the strengthening of the La Niña climate phenomenon.
PBAPP has earlier cautioned that February and March 2026 are expected to be dry months.
The period coincides with major festive celebrations in Penang, including Thaipusam, the Lunar New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
The corporation said water abstraction from the Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams is expected to increase significantly to meet higher demand during festive activities and the influx of visitors and tourists.
PBAPP also expressed hope that rainfall in April and May 2026 will help replenish dam storage levels.
Members of the public have been urged to cooperate by conserving water, reducing non-essential usage, adopting good water-saving practices and avoiding wastage to ensure a stable water supply during the dry season.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting