KUALA LUMPUR: More heavy rain and strong winds are expected to hit many parts of the country in the next couple of weeks, following the transition from the Northeast monsoon to the Southwest monsoon.
Meteorological Department (Met Malaysia) Director-General Datuk Alui Bahari said the transition phase began on March 19 and would continue until mid-May.
He added the beginning of the phase marked the end of the Northeast Monsoon that began on October 27.
"During this period, winds blowing at low speed from various directions contribute to the formation of thunderstorm clouds.
“During this phase, there will be thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rains and strong winds within a short period of time, especially in the evenings and early into the nights in most areas of the west coast, the interior of the peninsula, the west coast of Sabah and the western and central areas of Sarawak.
"It can cause flash floods and damages to weak structures," he said in a statement issued by Met Malaysia, here.
Meanwhile, according to information released by Met Malaysia, lightnings and thunderstorms are formed by cumulonimbus clouds that may cause heavy rains, wind gusting, hailstones and the presence of water - or land spouts.
Hence, the public is advised to be cautious on the dangers posed by water columns (kepala air) in waterfall areas, and avoid parking vehicles in flood prone areas.
Also, they are advised to avoid taking up outdoor activities, or seeking shelter and parking their vehicles under big trees.
Members of the public are also urged to stay tuned to Met Malaysia's weather forecasts and alerts through its website, myCuaca application and social media.