The prolonged dry spell caused by the El Nino phenomenon, which was expected to last until June, appears to be subsiding, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Climatology and Oceanography professor Dr Fredolin Tanggang told The Star Online.
The professor said persistent rains in the state over the past few weeks indicated that the incredibly hot and dry spell that began in March was easing off.
“I believe that conditions have rapidly returned to normal,” he told The Star.
While this itself is a reason to celebrate, unfortunately, Malaysians now have to brace for another natural phenomenon: La Nina.
Prof Fredolin said that the cooler conditions in the eastern Pacific near South America indicated the initiation of a La Nina event, which, in layman’s terms, means that we can expect heavier-than-usual rainfall.
“Looking at the anomalous sub-surface temperatures I believe we are heading for a moderate to strong La Nina,” he said.
He also warned that the La Nina phenomenon will likely come to head with widespread flooding by the end of November and December, and if it does occur, rainfall from June will very likely be above normal.
Brace yourself, people!
