A monsoon surge from Jan 1-5 will bring prolonged heavy rain to Sarawak, with strong winds and rough seas forecast for the South China Sea
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has forecast a monsoon surge affecting the country from January 1 to 5.
Director-General Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said the phenomenon could bring prolonged heavy rain to Sarawak.
He added it would also bring strong winds and rough seas over the South China Sea during the period.
“The public is advised to refer to www.met.gov.my, MetMalaysia’s official social media channels, and download the myCuaca application for the latest and verified information,” he said.
In a separate update, MetMalaysia issued a Category Three warning for strong winds and rough seas in the northeastern waters of Condore and northwestern Reef North until Friday.
Wind speeds there are expected to exceed 60 km/h with waves higher than 4.5 metres.
“These conditions are dangerous for all coastal and maritime activities, including offshore oil platform operations,” it stated.
MetMalaysia also issued a Category One warning for strong winds and rough seas in several other areas until Friday.
The affected areas are the southeastern waters of Samui, Tioman, northern Bunguran, southeastern and northern Reef North, Layang-Layang, and western Palawan.
Winds of 40-50 km/h with waves reaching up to 3.5 metres are expected in these zones.
These conditions pose dangers to small boats as well as marine recreational and sports activities.
