KUCHING: Sarawak could experience hotter and drier weather in the coming months as the El Nino phenomenon is expected to develop from Jul 2026 and potentially continue until early 2027.
Malaysia Meteorological Department (MET) Sarawak director Khairul Najib Ibrahim said there is about a 67 percent probability that El Nino could strengthen to a ‘strong’ or ‘very strong’ level between November 2026 and January 2027.
“However, there is still around a 31 per cent probability that the phenomenon will remain at a moderate intensity or weaker than the strong El Nino category,” he told RTM.
He said weather forecasts from June to November this year indicate that most areas in central to western Sarawak are expected to receive below-average rainfall.
According to him, the drier conditions are expected to peak between June and August 2026, coinciding with the Southwest Monsoon period and the early influence of El Nino.
Khairul warned that the hotter and drier weather could affect water resources and increase the risk of heat stress among the public.
As such, he advised the public to use water wisely and limit outdoor activities during periods of extreme heat to reduce health risks.
He also urged the public to avoid open burning, as prolonged dry conditions and reduced rainfall could increase the risk of localised and transboundary haze.
“Cooperation from all parties is crucial to ensure air quality and public well-being remain protected throughout the period of the phenomenon,” he added, as reported by RTM.
