KUALA LUMPUR: Northern Malaysia is expected to experience scorching hot and dry weather on the Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which is expected to fall on Wednesday.
Universiti Malaya Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences senior research fellow Professor Datuk Dr Azizan Abu Samah said the temperatures in the north are forecasted to reach around 35 or 36 degrees Celsius.
However, the southern regions may enjoy cooler temperatures due to anticipated rainfall in a number of areas such in Johor, Melaka and Negri Sembilan.
"On the first day of raya, the maximum temperature for the northern states is expected to hover around 35 and 36 degrees Celsius.
"The situation also might be the same for the second day of raya and it will not exceed the level 2 heat conditions," he told the New Straits Times (NST).
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), Perlis is anticipated to remain rain-free on April 10 and 11.
"On April 10, rain is forecasted only in the morning in Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Sarawak (specifically Kuching, Serian, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong, Sarikei, Sibu, and Kapit), and Sabah (Sandakan).
"In the afternoon and evening, rainfall is expected in Kedah, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negri Sembilan, Selangor, Perak, Melaka, Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Sarawak, and Sabah."
As of 5pm today, six locations in Malaysia have experienced Level 2 heat conditions, where the daily maximum temperature has surpassed 37 to 40 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days.
These areas include Perlis; Baling and Padang Terap in Kedah; Hulu Perak in Perak; as well as Jerantut and Maran in Pahang.
Professor Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, a public health medical expert from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, advised the public to avoid outdoor activities and limit their movements during Hari Raya.
"For those engaging in outdoor activities, such as making lemang or visiting relatives, remember that during this hot season, it's best not to spend too much time outdoors in the heat.
"The risk of overheating will increase. If possible, avoid outdoor activities altogether. If absolutely necessary, limit the time spent outdoors," she told NST.
She said the public needs to be extra cautious because the hot season poses a high risk of heat stroke.
"The public is advised to drink plenty of water and take showers to cool down, especially for young children who are more prone to heat rashes and dehydration.
"It also important to not leave anyone in the car for too long, especially when visiting family. They also can opt to wear loose and light-coloured clothing."
Dr Sharifa said maintaining cleanliness in food and drink consumption is also important, as food poisoning incidents may arise during the raya.
"Food poisoning can manifest symptoms like vomiting and other indicators that could lead to dehydration.
"This could worsen the situation, particularly for children and the elderly."
