KUALA LUMPUR: The ongoing Southwest Monsoon since May 10 has led to dry and hot weather conditions nationwide, with a high number of rainless days expected to continue until September.

Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip said thunderstorms and heavy rain are still occurring from time to time, particularly in the western regions of the peninsula, northern Sarawak, and western Sabah during the mornings.

He added that similar weather is also seen in the interior areas of the peninsula, Sarawak, and Sabah in the evenings and at night.

"The squall line phenomenon, which brings heavy rain and strong winds to the west coast of the peninsula, northern Sarawak and western Sabah, may also occur especially in the early morning when atmospheric conditions are favourable," he said when contacted.

He said during the seven-day period from June 10 to 16, most weather stations recorded temperatures below 35°C, except for Batu Gajah in Perak which recorded 36.7°C on June 15, and Limbang, which hit 36.5°C on June 13.

"The temperature readings have dropped slightly at all stations following rainfall in recent days," he said.

"At present, MetMalaysia has not issued any heatwave warnings due to the rainfall observed over the past few days."

On sea conditions, he said a Category One strong wind and rough sea warning had been issued, with waves reaching up to 3.5m high and wind speeds of up to 50km/h in the northern Straits of Melaka and Phuket waters.

The advisory remains in effect until Thursday, June 19.

Commenting on the El Nino phenomenon, he said it was expected to remain in a neutral phase, with overall weather conditions likely to stay at average levels.

"According to agencies monitoring the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the phenomenon is expected to remain in a neutral phase until October, and during this phase, weather conditions are forecast to remain average."

"A detailed explanation of rainfall amounts in each district over the coming months is available on the department's website at https://www.met.gov.my/data/climate/tinjauancuacajangkapanjang.pdf," he said.

Mohd Hisham also advised the public to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during periods of extreme heat, as well as to wear appropriate clothing.

"In the current hot and dry weather, drink plenty of water, avoid excessive outdoor activities, and wear suitable clothing. If outside, wear a hat or use an umbrella.

"Open burning should also be avoided as it can lead to haze and environmental pollution.

"The public is advised to seek verified weather updates via our official website, the MyCuaca app, MetMalaysia's social media channels, or contact the hotline at 1-300-22-1638 for further enquiries," he said.