by Theleaders | May 17, 2026 6:08 pm
KUALA LUMPUR, May 17 — The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a thunderstorm warning for states across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, cautioning residents to brace for heavy rain, strong winds and lightning until 7.00pm.
The warning, issued at 4.10pm, covers an extensive stretch of the country, affecting communities from the northern state of Perlis all the way south to Johor, as well as major areas in both East Malaysian states.
In Peninsular Malaysia, the affected states include Perlis, several districts in Kedah — namely Kubang Pasu, Kota Setar, Pokok Sena and Padang Terap — as well as districts in Perak, Pahang, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka and Johor.
The warning covers densely populated and economically significant areas, including parts of the Klang Valley such as Gombak, Hulu Selangor and Hulu Langat.
In Sarawak, the alert extends across Kuching, Serian, Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Kapit, Bintulu, Miri and Limbang, while in Sabah, residents in the Interior, West Coast, Tawau, parts of Sandakan and the Kudat division have also been placed on notice.
MetMalaysia said the warning was triggered by conditions indicating thunderstorms with rainfall intensity exceeding 20 millimetres per hour, either already occurring or expected to persist for more than one hour.
The department reminded the public that thunderstorm warnings are short-term advisories, valid for no more than six hours from the time of issuance.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to remain indoors where possible, avoid open fields and tall trees, and stay away from flooded roads and waterways.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution, reduce speed and switch on headlights in conditions of poor visibility.
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