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The Southwest Monsoon is expected to begin this week on 14 May and continue until September
In a statement on 11 May, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) said the monsoon's arrival marks the end of the inter-monsoon phase, with winds expected to blow consistently from the southwest across the country.
It said the monsoon typically brings lower humidity, which results in reduced cloud formation and less rainfall in most areas.
"As a result, the country will receive lower rainfall totals compared to other periods, with more dry days than rainy days," it said.
However, the department said heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms may still occur in the western parts of Peninsular Malaysia, as well as northern Sarawak and western Sabah, particularly in the early morning
It said this is due to the squall line phenomenon, a line of thunderstorms that forms over the Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea before moving inland due to wind convergence, and can last for several hours.
The department also warned that local and transboundary haze may occur during the peak of the monsoon from July to September if open burning is not controlled
It advised the public to avoid open burning to prevent haze pollution and to use water prudently during this drier period.
The public is also encouraged to check the latest weather forecasts and warnings through METMalaysia's official channels.
