PADANG TERAP, KEDAH RECORDS LEVEL TWO HEATWAVE - METMALAYSIA

KUALA LUMPUR, March 23 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has reported that Padang Terap in Kedah is experiencing Level Two (heatwave) conditions, with daily maximum temperatures ranging from 37 to 40 degrees Celsius.

In a statement today, MetMalaysia said 14 areas in Peninsular Malaysia are under Level One (alert), including the whole of Perlis, as well as Baling, Sik, Pendang, Pokok Sena, Kubang Pasu, Langkawi, Kuala Muda and Bandar Baharu in Kedah.

The same alert has also been issued for the Northeast district of Penang, Hulu Perak and Kuala Kangsar in Perak, Jerantut in Pahang, and Rembau in Negeri Sembilan.

A heatwave is defined as daily maximum temperatures of between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days, while Level One (alert) refers to temperatures of between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius over the same period.

The public can check the latest daily hot weather status at https://www.met.gov.my/iklim/status-cuaca-panas/.

In a separate Facebook post, MetMalaysia extended greetings for World Meteorological Day, observed today under the theme “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow”.

The department said the theme emphasises the importance of accurate and up-to-date meteorological monitoring, supported by technology, in protecting lives and the environment for future generations.

“Through continuous weather monitoring, we can improve forecasting, issue early warnings, and take swift action to reduce the risks of natural disasters and the impact of climate change,” it said.

MetMalaysia also commemorated Malaysia’s 68th anniversary as a member of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), reflecting the country’s commitment to global cooperation for societal well-being and environmental sustainability.

In another post, director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip expressed appreciation to all department personnel for their dedication in carrying out daily monitoring and weather balloon launches.

“While many are asleep, MetMalaysia personnel remain steadfast in fulfilling their responsibilities to monitor and forecast the weather, ensuring the nation’s safety and well-being,” he said.

He also conveyed appreciation to weather and climate researchers for advancing understanding of past climate patterns and guiding efforts towards a more sustainable future.

-- BERNAMA