By Nasuha Badrul Huzaini
SHAH ALAM, Jan 4 — Thunderstorms, heavy showers and strong winds are expected to hit seven districts in Selangor until 9pm, says the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
In a warning issued by the agency at 5.55pm, the affected areas are Sabak Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Hulu Selangor, Gombak, Petaling, Hulu Langat and Sepang.
“Similar weather conditions are also expected in Kedah (Kuala Muda, Baling, Kulim and Bandar Baharu), Penang, Perak, Kelantan (Jeli, Kuala Krai and Gua Musang), Terengganu (Kemaman), Pahang (Cameron Highlands, Lipis, Jerantut, Bentong, Kuantan and Bera).
“Other areas include Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Sarawak (Julau, Sibu, Mukah, Song, Kapit and Tatau as well as Sabah (Ranau, Kota Belud and Kota Marudu),” it said.
MetMalaysia issues warnings whenever signs indicate a thunderstorm with a rain intensity exceeding 20 mm that is close to or is expected to occur for more than an hour.
A thunderstorm warning is a short-term warning valid for a period not exceeding six hours for a single release.