Isn’t it hot lately, huh? It’s either raining heavily or hot as if I were in the microwave~ Is this weather normal, or is it not? What do you think?
—Yeah, it’s not normal. The hot weather affecting the country is caused by El Nino weather, and according to the journal Scientific Reports, there is a 90% chance that the temperature pattern will continue until July.
So, what is that El Nino?
What You Need to Know About El Nino
What is El Nino?
El Nino is a weather pattern that starts with warmer ocean water in the central and eastern parts of the Pacific Ocean. This warm-up can change weather all over the world, including causing drier and warmer weather in places like Malaysia.
So, was it a big deal?— Yup! Because it will impact your daily life!
Why Is It Happening in Malaysia?
El Nino affects weather globally, and for Malaysia, it usually means less rain and hotter temperatures. Malaysia is close to the equator and relies heavily on regular rain, so when El Nino occurs, it can lead to less water for drinking and farming.
Scientists in the United States (US) also confirm that the phenomenon has begun, and they fear that the warming that occurs will cause the world’s temperature to exceed the warming limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius!
They also say there is a 25% potential for this phenomenon to exceed 2 degrees Celsius at its peak, thus entering the ‘Super El Nino’ phase.
What Is The Causes of El Nino?
It happens naturally every few years and lasts about a year or more. It’s caused by changes in the ocean and the atmosphere:
- Wind Patterns: Normally, winds in the Pacific Ocean blow from east to west. During this phenomenon, these winds can get weaker or change direction.
- Ocean Temperature: When the winds change, warm water from the western Pacific moves towards the east, raising the sea surface temperature in the central and eastern Pacific.
- Air Pressure: Changes in air pressure over the ocean, called the Southern Oscillation, also play a role in creating El Niño and affecting weather around the world.
Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, said in the opening ceremony of the Kampung Angkat MADANI NRES that this year has been the hottest in Malaysia since 1998.
States such as Kelantan, Perlis, and Kedah have experienced hotter weather than the other states.
So, What Actions Do You Need to Make During This El Nino?
Taking proactive measures during El Nino is important for several reasons, especially considering the potential impacts on family and personal well-being:
1. Hydration and Health
• Keep a reusable water bottle at your desk to stay hydrated.
• Dress in light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat.
2. Commute Considerations
• If possible, adjust your work hours to avoid commuting during the hottest part of the day.
• Consider carpooling or using public transport to reduce the strain of driving in uncomfortable conditions.
3. Workspace Adjustments
• Use blinds or curtains to block out excessive heat in your office.
• If air quality is poor due to haze, ensure your office AC filters are regularly cleaned or upgraded to remove pollutants.
4. Daily Routine Adjustments
• Schedule errands and activities for earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
• If you exercise outdoors, switch to indoor activities like yoga or home workouts during extreme heat or poor air quality.
5. Personal Health Monitoring
• If you have respiratory issues, have your medications and masks readily accessible.
• Keep track of weather forecasts and health advisories related to heat and air quality.
6. Food and Water Security
• Plan meals that only require a little water to prepare.
• Learn how to store water and food properly during emergencies.
• Stock up on bottled water and non-perishable food for potential water shortages or if heat and haze limit outings.
7. Home Environment
• Use thermal curtains or reflective window panels to keep the heat out.
• If air conditioning is unavailable, consider creating cooling zones in your home with fans and moist towels.
• Create a comfortable and safe indoor environment with air purifiers to improve air quality inside the home during hazy conditions.
8. Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Heat and long indoor stays can impact mental health. Keep up a routine of indoor physical activity, relaxation, and hobbies.
• Stay connected with friends and family through phone calls or online platforms, especially if outdoor meetings are restricted due to poor air quality or extreme heat.
9. Budget Management
• Consider investing in energy-efficient appliances and retrofitting your home to be more energy and water-efficient long-term
• Anticipate possible increases in expenses, such as higher utility bills due to more frequent air conditioning use, and budget accordingly.
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Continue Reading:
1. Heat Wave Alert: Malaysians Encouraged to Stay Cool and Hydrated Amidst Rising Temperatures
2. Haze Season Is Back In Malaysia: Tips & Where To Check Air Pollutant Index