China News Service, Kuala Lumpur, March 30 (Reporter Chen Yue) Since March, the persistent high temperatures have had a great impact on the daily life and agricultural production of the Malaysian people. The country's meteorological department predicts that the hot weather may continue until early to mid-April.
According to statistics from the Malaysian Meteorological Department, on March 27, 33 areas across Malaysia were in Level 1 high temperature weather, that is, the highest temperature was between 35 degrees Celsius and 37 degrees Celsius for three consecutive days. There are also some areas that have reached Level 2 high temperature weather, that is, the highest temperature is between 37 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius. Especially in places such as Kedah and Perlis close to Thailand, the temperature continues to be high.
High temperatures are accompanied by reduced rainfall and drought. Malaysian meteorologists predicted in February this year that severe drought may occur in many places in Malaysia due to the influence of the El Niño phenomenon.
Since March, as of the 25th, 16 areas across Malaysia have had no rainfall for 15 consecutive days. There were only 2 days of rainfall in Perlis from March 1 to 25, and the rainfall on one of them was only 1.4 mm. The Lahad Datu area in Sabah had not experienced rainfall for 29 consecutive days as of March 26.
The Malaysian Water Conservancy Department has recently issued drought warnings for many rivers, such as the Kelantan River, Malacca River, etc. The water levels in these rivers continue to decrease, which may cause problems with the domestic water supply for people in surrounding areas. From February to March this year, artificial rainfall has been carried out in many places in Malaysia. Among them, Sabah started artificial rainfall on the 28th of this month and lasted for three days.
High temperatures and drought cause crop yield losses in Malaysia. Relevant Malaysian government officials recently stated that considering the "frequent and sustained" high temperatures, the government will consider planting more heat-resistant crops.
Recently, there have been 31 cases caused by hot weather in Malaysia, and one person died due to heat stroke. The Malaysian Ministry of Health recommends that schools in Level 1 hot weather areas suspend all outdoor activities. If the temperature rises further, schools may consider temporarily suspending classes. (over)