KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 — The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) today has denied claims on scorching hot weather reaching 40°C for the next five days that went viral on social media platforms.

Its director-general Alui Bahari said the highest temperature recorded last week was at 36°C, below the temperature of heat wave at 37°C.

"The sun is also not in the Equator line now, and based on the current monitoring, the thunderstorms in the afternoon have taken place in several parts of the peninsula following the weakening of the typhoon Lan.

"This thunderstorm is normal during the current monsoon transition phase,” he said in a statement here today.

Alui also advised the public to obtain valid information from MET Malaysia website at www.met.gov.my or call 1-300-221638. — Bernama