Malaysia warns against hot, dry weather due to strong El Nino phenomenon

Malaysian government warns public on Monday to prepare for the hot and dry weather due to strong El Niño phenomenon.

The government said the current El Niño phenomenon was expected to last until the end of 2016. It could reduce the rainfall by 20 percent to 60 percent and raise the maximum temperature by 0.5 degrees Celsius to 2.0 degrees Celsius.

The maximum temperature in normal days could be between 28.6 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees Celsius, and in hot days the temperature could be as high as 35 degrees Celsius to 37 degrees Celsius.

In a statement, the health ministry warned that the hot spell could cause water-, food- and vector-borne diseases as well as haze-related diseases. It advised the public to limit outdoor activities, in order to reduce the health risks due to the hot weather, including dehydration and heat stroke.

Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the government is prepared to face the weather changes, providing water supply such as water pumps to areas that are predicted to be most affected.
  Xinhua - globaltimes.cn
  11/1/16
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