Expect a hotter Ramadan, Malaysians told

Malaysians can expect to experience hotter weather with little rainfall throughout Ramadan this year, said the Meteorological Department.

Its deputy director-general (Strategic and Technical), Dr Mohd Rosaidi Che Abas said the median temperature during Ramadan (which starts in mid June) would be between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius and there would be less than normal rainfall.

"Normal median temperatures in Malaysia are about 30,31,32 Celcius but for this fasting month, we forecast it to be hotter, up to 35 degrees Celsius," he told Bernama.

The hot and dry weather is attributed to the arrival of the Southwest Monsoon season which is expected to continue until September.

The temperature may differ according to location with areas in the north such as Perlis expected to be higher by one or two degrees Celsius.

The date for sighting of the Ramadan new moon to determine the start of fasting for Muslims in Malaysia is Tuesday (June 16) or 29 Syaaban 1436 Hijrah.

Dr Mohd Rosaidi also said the arrival of the Southwest Monsoon will also reduce the occurence of thunderstorms.

Asked about a viral message advising the public to wear rain soaked clothes to reduce serious injury if struck by lightning, he said that it was untrue.

"Water is an electricity conductor. If there is lightning during rainfall and the clothes are soaked, then it is possible for lighting to strike."

He said the best place to avoid being struck by lightning while outside the house is in vehicles because the tyres are the best lightning insulators.

"Avoid being outdoors during a thunderstorm. If you happen to be outside, stay in buildings because they have lightning insulators.

"The most important thing is not to be out in the open or under trees as the charge will flow into the ground and to the trees."