Brunei: Adverse weather forecast across the country through at least Sept. 20

Severe weather is forecast across much of Brunei through at least Sept. 20. The Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department has issued an orange (middle level on a three-tier scale) weather advisory warning of heavy and gusty showers across Brunei Sept. 17. Strong winds gusting up to 60 kph (37 mph) are forecast during storms and heavy downpours will bring a risk of flash flooding over low-lying and flood-prone areas. Strong winds could cause property damage and power outages. Further showers and storms are forecast in the region Sept. 18-20. 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 hours. 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.