Malaysia: Adverse weather forecast in most of the country through at least Feb. 7

Event

Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and rough seas are forecast across much of Malaysia through at least Feb. 7. As of Feb. 2, the Malaysian Meteorological Department has issued thunderstorm and lightning warnings for all of Perlis State and parts of Johor, Kedah, Perak, Sabah, Sarawak, and Selangor states. The thunderstorms are likely to be accompanied by heavy rainfall and strong winds. A Category One Strong Winds and Rough Seas warning (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) has been issued for the South China Sea and Sulu Sea waters effective through Feb. 7. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

In the department's longer-term forecast, continuous rainfall is expected across eastern Sabah, and central and western Sarawak states Feb. 5-7. Humid weather bringing morning showers are forecast over coastal districts on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, including Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu. States on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, including Melaka, Negri Sembilan, Perak, and Selangor, are expected to experience thunderstorms in the afternoons. Hot weather with less rainfall is forecast over northern parts of the peninsular.

Hazardous Conditions

The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Transport

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Malaysian Meteorological Department
Malaysian Meteorological Department Twitter