KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 14 — Hot and relatively dry weather is expected to persist in Sarawak and several other areas of Borneo until Aug 20, potentially increasing the risk of haze and reducing visibility, particularly in southern Sarawak.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), in a statement today, said the conditions were influenced by southerly winds and the still-high number of hotspots in Borneo.

As of 10am today, 10 areas nationwide recorded Air Pollutant Index readings at unhealthy levels, based on data from the Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System portal, with the majority of the locations in Sarawak.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, MetMalaysia issued a thunderstorm and heavy rain warning for the whole of Perlis, Kedah, Penang and the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur until 1pm today.

The warning also covers several areas in Perak, namely Kerian, Selama, Larut Matang, Manjung and Bagan Datuk, as well as Selangor, including Sabak Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Klang, Petaling, Gombak and Hulu Selangor.

The public is advised to stay updated on the latest weather information and warnings through MetMalaysia’s website, official social media platforms and the myCuaca app. — Bernama