Singapore can expect more wet days ahead as the Northeast Monsoon season gears up, according to the Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS).
The first half of this month has already been wetter than usual in many parts of the island, with 188mm of rainfall recorded at the Changi climate station.
Rainfall for November and December 2014 is expected to be about 20 percent above the long-term average of 256.6mm and 288.4mm respectively.
The Northeast Monsoon typically occurs in two phases: the wet phase between late November and January, and the drier phase in February.
During the wet phase, residents can expect short-time moderate to heavy thundery showers mainly in the afternoon and evening, and about two to four episodes of monsoon surges, which represent the steady strengthening of northeasterly winds blowing from the South China Sea. These surges cause prolonged widespread moderate to heavy rain lasting up to five days with windy conditions and cooler temperatures.
The MSS say they will issue warnings when heavy rain or prolonged monsoon rain is expected, in addition to the regular weather forecast, but the public is advised to always prepare for heavy rain, which may be accompanied by localised flash floods in low-lying areas.
For the latest weather reports, call MSS’ weather forecast hotline at 6542-7788 or visit the National Environment Agency (NEA) website. You may also check the Public Utilities Board’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
Call 1800-284-6600 to report a flood and 1800-600-333 to report choked drainage.
Photo: Screengrab from video of last year’s Singapore flood
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