THE monsoon transition phase is expected to begin on Thursday and continue until mid-May, marking the end of the northeast monsoon, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) said.

Director-general Muhammad Helmi Abdullah said during this phase, the country will be subject to gentle winds from various directions, which form brief thunderstorms.

“This normally happens in the afternoon and late evening in most areas on the west coast and interiors of the peninsula, western Sabah as well as central Sarawak.

“These conditions have the potential of causing flash floods and damage to unstable structures,” he said.

Helmi advised the public to be more vigilant during this period besides always keeping updated with MetMalaysia weather forecasts and warnings.

The public can also call MetMalaysia’s hotline number on 1-300-22-1638 for further enquiries. – Bernama, March 20, 2023.