ALOR SETAR (ANN/THE STAR) – The current hot weather is providing a temporary benefit to padi farmers since it coincides with the harvest season. However, farmers believe that the prolonged heat might interfere with the upcoming padi planting season.
Shuib Ismail, 65, from Pokok Sena, said while the heat is manageable during harvest, the prolonged exposure could harm both farmers’ health and padi plants.
Another padi farmer, Abdul Kadir Ismail, 68, from Kuala Nerang, said besides pest infestations, rats and brown hoppers (bena perang) could pose serious problems to the rice plants’ quality and yield.
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department, while hot weather is expected until mid-March, the situation is not as severe as last year. Temperatures may exceed 35°C in the early afternoon during this period.
Kedah health committee chairman Mejar (Rtd) Mansor Zakaria said the public is advised to avoid being outdoors during peak heat hours, or from 11am to 4pm.
He encouraged people to seek immediate medical attention if they show signs of heat-related illnesses, including headaches, fatigue, dizziness, muscle weakness, cramps, nausea or confusion.
Public health specialist Dr Rahayu Hami from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) cautioned that workers like field labourers and padi farmers face dangers of heat exhaustion, heatstroke and dehydration.
“Stay hydrated and drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid caffeinated and sugary drinks, as they can lead to dehydration,” she said.
She also said these workers should take breaks every 30-45 minutes in the shade.
“Farmers should look out for signs of heat stress in each other. If someone feels dizzy or weak, get them to rest in the shade immediately,” she added.
Dr Mastura Mohd Sopian, USM family medicine specialist, said the public, especially students, should limit outdoor activities and avoid exercising in the heat.
“Wear comfortable clothing and apply sunscreen when outside,” she said.
In Penang, temperatures varied between 25°C to 31°C, with authorities urging the public to remain hydrated and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Yesterday morning saw isolated thunderstorms, which became more prevalent in the afternoon, reaching a peak temperature of around 32°C.
