Accra:The Super El Niño phenomenon is expected to bring extremely hot weather to Malaysia between March and May next year, potentially surpassing the country's record high temperature of 40.1 degrees Celsius.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Meteorological Department director-general Dr. Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip stated that maximum temperatures could exceed 41 degrees Celsius. This prediction is based on analyses of the current intense El Niño, combined with climate change and global warming effects. The temperature increase rate in Malaysia is approximately 0.13 degrees Celsius per decade, and the significant temperature spikes associated with El Niño could push temperatures beyond the record set in 1998.
Dr. Mohd Hisham shared these insights during a press conference at the National Climate Forum 2026 at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. The forum, with the theme "Preparedness Today, Resilience Tomorrow," was attended by over 500 participants from various government sectors.
Malaysia's highest recorded temperature of 40.1 degrees Celsius occurred in Chuping, Perlis, on April 9, 1998, during the 1997/1998 El Niño episode. The 2015/2016 episode saw a peak of 39.3 degrees Celsius in Batu Embun, Pahang. The current El Niño is projected to have an index exceeding 2.5, surpassing past peak levels. Strong El Niño events can raise daily maximum temperatures by up to 0.7 degrees Celsius above normal, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius expected to be more widespread and prolonged.
Dr. Mohd Hisham also noted the potential for a recurrence of up to 77 consecutive days without rain, particularly in the northern states of the Peninsula. This could start at the end of the year, with dry conditions through January and February, before rain returns in March.
He emphasized the importance of the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon, forecasted to begin in late October, for ensuring adequate rainfall fills the country's dams before the anticipated dry spell. This measure aligns with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's directive for early preparations regarding water supply and storage.
Concerns were also raised about increased electricity consumption due to higher air conditioner usage during the hot months. Dr. Mohd Hisham highlighted the necessity for sufficient energy grid capacity to prevent disruptions.
MetMalaysia is collaborating with the Ministry of Health to develop a Heat Index to warn the public about health risks associated with hot weather, classifying temperatures into three levels for public awareness.