Northeast monsoon 2026 starts on 27 October, MetMalaysia expects three to five heavy rain episodes
The northeast monsoon begins 27 October. MetMalaysia expects three to five episodes of heavy rain from November to January, with flood risk.
The 2026/2027 northeast monsoon is expected to begin on 27 October and last until March next year, according to Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip. The department expects three to five episodes of continuous heavy rain in the first phase of the monsoon, from November to January.
What MetMalaysia expects
In a media statement on 23 October, Mohd Hisham said the conditions could cause flooding in low-lying areas and places near rivers. Continuous strong northeasterly winds could also bring rough seas and rising sea levels in the South China Sea.
The final phase, from January to March 2027, is expected to be drier. Rainfall will decrease, particularly in the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia and in Sabah. The hot, dry weather could bring more extreme heatwaves because of the ongoing Super El Niño, he said.
What it means for you
In short, the season starts with flood risk and ends with heat risk. MetMalaysia did not name specific states or districts in the statement, so no area should assume it is safe. Low-lying and flood-prone areas should be extra careful when rain continues for several days.
Mohd Hisham advised the public to stay prepared throughout the monsoon and to follow the weather information, advisories, forecasts and warnings the department issues.
Where to check warnings
- Website: www.met.gov.my
- The myCuaca mobile app
- MetMalaysia's official social media channels
- Hotline: 1-300-22-1638
Background
Extreme weather is not new this month. Haze earlier closed schools in several states and prompted public health advice. See Haze shuts schools in four states, KL and Putrajaya. Here are the new API rules and Haze masks, MOH advises N95, and says three-ply masks give only limited protection.
Sources
- Free Malaysia Today (Bernama), Warning of monsoon flood risk from Oct 27 to year-end, 23 October 2026
- Malay Mail (Bernama), Ready for floods and extreme heat? North-east monsoon begins Oct 27, MetMalaysia warns, 23 October 2026
The saksama editorial team
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