Brunei is in the midst of the second phase of the Northeast Monsoon, where dry and hot weather is expected to persist until March 2024, according to the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department in a press release on Tuesday.
Traditionally, this period witnesses stable atmospheric conditions, leading to reduced rainfall activities.
February and March, historically recognised as the two driest months, exhibit the lowest average rainfall, measuring 162.9 mm and 143.4 mm, respectively, based on climatological data.
The latest climate seasonal outlook from world climate centers indicates the continuance of a robust El Nino in the Pacific Ocean, gradually expected to weaken around May-June 2024.
This phenomenon is poised to further diminish the rainfall in Brunei over the coming months.
During the latter half of the Northeast Monsoon, the prevailing weather conditions are characterised by intense heat and dry spells. Daily maximum air temperatures may reach 33°C to 35°C, occasionally causing a slight haziness. The El Nino effect could escalate these temperatures.
Windy conditions are expected, particularly during active Northeasterly winds over the South China Sea, witnessed recently in mid-February. Sea conditions may occasionally become rough during these periods of strong winds.
