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The UK and Europe are experiencing a summer heatwave currently. According to reports, the heat was record breaking and has caused some deaths in countries like Spain, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Most of us have ignored warnings of climate change and some of us are really feeling the effects now. Naturally, this makes some worry that Malaysia will experience a similar phenomenon, especially the “super” El Nino, soon.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) said temperatures in the country are expected to reach between 39 and 40 degrees Celsius in the northern and interior areas of the Peninsula, if the El Nino phenomenon develops as predicted in the next few months.

MetMalaysia Deputy Director General (Operations), Ambun Dindang, said the country’s weather history showed that extreme temperature readings have been recorded during strong El Nino phases, such as 40.1 degrees Celsius in Chuping, Perlis, on 9 April 1998. It remains the highest reading ever recorded in the country.

This is followed by 39.3 degrees Celsius in Pahang on 10 April 2016 and 39.1 degrees Celsius in Alor Setar, Kedah, on 18 March 2019.

What does the potential “Super El Nino” mean for Malaysia?

Malaysia typically records its highest temperatures during the strong El Nino phase, especially between March and April.

As a tropical country surrounded by the ocean, Malaysia may be somewhat buffered from the extreme weather swings seen in temperate or continental climates. Even so, it’s not immune to the rising temperatures brought on by El Nino.

Ambun said temperatures are not expected to soar as high as 45 degrees Celsius, which is currently what Europeans are facing, due to the country’s high humidity.

He explained that moisture from the South China Sea, the Straits of Malacca, and waters surrounding the country play a crucial role in balancing the increase in temperatures, including helping to maintain the formation of clouds and rain.

Additionally, he didn’t rule out the possibility of prolonged hot weather episodes if El Nino reaches a stronger level.

MetMalaysia further mentioned that it’s not unusual for Malaysia to reach temperatures of 39 to 40 degrees Celsius, based on the country’s weather history. However, the authorities still need to monitor because the prolonged high heat could affect public health, water resources, and the economic sector.

MetMalaysia continues to monitor the development of El Nino phenomenon and will update the public accordingly.

READ MORE: Temperatures Are Rising, Here’s How To Stay Cool In The Face Of Everything

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