The government is ramping up its response to intensifying heatwave conditions, with temperatures in several areas expected to reach between 35°C and 40°C, straining water supply, agriculture and daily life.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said state-level preparedness must be strengthened, including the immediate activation of State Disaster Control Centres (SDCC) to ensure decisions are guided by real-time, data-driven inputs.

He said immediate response measures are already underway, including the delivery of emergency water supply to affected areas.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Agency will implement Cloud Seeding Operations (OPA) in Perak, Kedah, Perlis and Johor from April 6 to 9 to help raise dam water levels affected by prolonged dry conditions.

Zahid stressed that the government’s priority is to ensure assistance reaches vulnerable groups, including low-income households, the elderly, small-scale farmers and communities dependent on local water sources.

He also urged the public to use water prudently and adhere to authorities’ instructions as the country navigates the ongoing heatwave.