Kota bharu: The Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has issued a warning that the Super El Ni±o phenomenon, expected to peak towards the end of this year, will likely heighten the risk of fires across the state due to the anticipated hotter and drier weather conditions. This climatic event is also projected to significantly reduce the probability of major floods in the region this year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Farhan Sufyan Borhan, the director of JBPM, noted that the state could experience a severe drought and urged the public to refrain from open burning, which could lead to fires. The department has already received 2,197 fire-related emergency calls from January to date, a stark increase from the 373 calls recorded throughout the previous year. This surge places Kelantan as the second-highest state for open fires after Kedah.
"We have found that most open fires are caused by deliberate burning for land clearing and agricultural purposes, rather than occurring spontaneously," Farhan Sufyan stated. He emphasized that legal action could be taken against those who engage in such activities, with several cases already referred to the Department of Environment (DOE) for prosecution.
Reports indicate that Kelantan, along with Kedah and Perlis, are among the states most at risk of experiencing severe drought conditions as the Super El Ni±o reaches its peak later this year.
In addition to fire risks, Farhan Sufyan also highlighted the dangers associated with gold panning activities, urging those involved to prioritize safety to mitigate the risk of drowning. Although the state government supports gold panning to boost economic activity, participants should remain cautious, especially those who are inexperienced.
He advised individuals to gather information about local conditions and be prepared for emergencies, noting the importance of being aware of weather conditions that could cause sudden increases in river water levels. Wearing life jackets is recommended as a personal safety measure.
Notably, two men lost their lives in May when a riverbank collapsed during gold mining activities in the Jerimbong Oil Palm Estate area.
Farhan Sufyan also mentioned the success of the Jom Renang (Let's Swim) program aimed at reducing drowning incidents among children under 15. The program has attracted 320 participants out of the targeted 400 in Kelantan. In 2025, the state recorded 25 drowning deaths, with six fatalities reported so far this year.