Malaysia: Heatwave forecast to persist across much of the country through at least April 15 /update 1

High temperatures are likely to persist across much of Malaysia through at least April 15. As of March 27, the Malaysia Department of Meteorology has issued a significant weather bulletin, warning that dry and hot conditions are expected to prevail over most of Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah over the coming days, with temperatures in excess of 35 C (95 F) likely. Isolated storms with heavy rainfall and strong winds are still possible, particularly over western parts of the peninsula and Sarawak State. As of March 27, orange high-temperature warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) are in place over Perlis and northern Perak states and yellow high-temperature warnings over parts of central, northern, and southern Peninsular Malaysia and parts of northern and western Sabah and eastern Sarawak states. Officials could upgrade, expand, or rescind the alerts over the coming days as conditions change. Authorities have reported one fatality due to heat stroke in Pahang State and dozens of other people have been treated for heat-related illnesses across the country in recent days. At least two dams across the country are at critically low levels due to the recent dry weather.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.