Brunei: Adverse weather forecast to continue nationwide through at least Aug. 25 /update 1

Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds are expected to continue across much of Brunei through at least Aug. 25. The Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory warning of active weather conditions from late Aug. 20 through Aug. 25. Heavy rainfall is likely in the early morning, especially along the coastal areas, while thunderstorms are expected in the afternoon over the interior areas and spread to coastal and sea areas during the night. Strong winds gusting up to 50 kph (31 mph) are forecast during storms. Heavy downpours may generate flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds could cause property damage and power outages. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across Brunei in the coming days. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding in some areas. 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 downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Rain-induced landslides are possible in areas of elevated terrain. Power outages could occur throughout the affected areas.

The severe weather may cause transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

Delays and cancellations are possible at airports in the region, including Brunei International Airport (BWN). Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the South China Sea coast 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 or storm damage, could persist well after conditions have improved—it could take days before floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.