KOTA KINABALU: The severe dry spell in Sabah grinds on with a large part of the state left parched by weeks of no rain.
Sandakan is perhaps the worst hit, with the northeast city receiving no rainfall for a stunning 23 consecutive days.
Almost as badly affected is Tungku town in Lahad Datu, where it has not rained for 22 days; followed by Tumunong Hallu, Lahad Datu (18 days); the Lahad Datu Meteorology Station (17 days); and Kota Kinabatangan, Kinabatangan (17 days).
Rain last fell eight days ago at the Wario Cultivation Centre in Kota Belud; nine days ago at the Ranau Meteorology Station; and 10 days ago at Laban Rata, Mount Kinabalu.
Other locations in the state which have gone for at least 10 consecutive days without rain include Semporna; the Serinsim Substation in Kota Marudu; the Mesilau Agriculture Department in Kundasang; and the Tiger Farm and Meteorology Station at Tawau Airport.
“Overall, total rainfall has declined by between 40 and 50 per cent throughout Sabah this month, especially in the north, east and north western coast.
“For other areas, precipitation has declined by between 20 and 40 per cent,” said Sabah Meteorology director Azemi Daud.
Meanwhile, the department has forecast that hot and dry conditions will persist in the state until the end of April.
Azemi explained that the situation, which could even stretch into May, is connected to the weak El Nino phenomenon.
The weather emergency has led to water shortages in some areas, and Kota Belud district has declared a state of drought.