Thunderstorms may offer temporary haze relief as Sarawak braces for prolonged dry spell, says MetMalaysia state director

KUCHING (Aug 28): Thunderstorms recently sweeping through Sarawak may provide temporary respite from the haze, but the relief is likely short-lived if high temperatures continue and smoke sources persist, stated Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) Sarawak director Khairul Najib Ibrahim. The director explained that thunderstorms are common in tropical climates but can form rapidly when atmospheric conditions become unstable.

Sarawak’s warm, humid climate has led to the development of large storm clouds capable of producing thunderstorms and strong winds, according to Khairul Najib. While the recent thunderstorms are not necessarily unusual, the unusually warm temperatures in the area have created unstable atmospheric conditions, he said. Smoke particles can contribute to cloud formation by acting as nuclei around which water droplets form.

Heavy rain could help disperse haze by removing smoke and dust particles through wet deposition; however, the improvement may be temporary if smoke sources remain active. Sarawak is currently experiencing moderate El Niño conditions, which could extend until April 2027, and the latest projections suggest the current El Niño could strengthen to a "super" El Niño in October to December this year.

The director advised the public to follow authorities' instructions, stay updated on weather developments, and take necessary precautions during thunderstorms, which can intensify rapidly under unstable conditions.