Nik Nazmi said four areas in Kelantan recorded a Level 2 heatwave, with temperatures ranging from 37°C to 40°C for at least three consecutive days.

He said there were two heatstroke-related deaths earlier this year, involving a 22-year-old man in Pahang in February and a three-year-old child in Kelantan last month.

“I have called for the second meeting of the government’s national haze and dry weather committee to be expedited to discuss the hot weather situation,” he said in a statement.

Nik Nazmi said the onset of southwest monsoon from the middle of this month to September is expected to reduce the occurrence of thunderstorms and heavy rains. Most states will experience more days without rain.

Nik Nazmi urged the public to stay updated on the weather and air quality through the myCuaca and MyIPU apps, the official MetMalaysia website, and the Air Pollutant Index Management System portal.

The minister strongly advised against open burning activities, which he said could worsen air quality. He also urged the public to immediately report any open burning or fires to the fire and rescue department or environment department.

The El Nino phenomenon, which typically results in reduced precipitation in Asia due to the warming of Pacific Ocean waters, is currently affecting the country and may continue until July.

Nik Nazmi said this year has been Malaysia’s hottest since 1998, with states like Kelantan, Perlis, and Kedah experiencing more severe heat compared to others.