Good news: Sumatra squalls may bring widespread thundery showers and gusty winds during the pre-dawn hours and morning on a few days during the second fortnight of September 2024, according to a Sep. 16 media advisory issued by the Meteorological Service Singapore. More rainfall is also forecast towards the last week of the month, with thundery showers expected on most afternoons. On some of those days, the thundery showers could be widespread and heavy. However, there may be a few days in the early part of the upcoming fortnight that have little rainfall. The total rainfall for the second half of September 2024 is forecast to be above average over most parts of Singapore.
Background
The Meteorological Service Singapore has issued a media advisory predicting significant rainfall and thundery showers for the latter half of September 2024. This weather pattern is attributed to the prevailing Southwest Monsoon conditions, which are expected to persist over Singapore and the surrounding region. The advisory highlights the potential for Sumatra squalls to bring gusty winds and widespread showers, particularly during the pre-dawn hours and mornings.
23°C days possible
With the anticipated wet weather, daily temperatures may range between 23°C and 32°C on a few days in the second fortnight of September 2024. On most days, however, the daily temperatures are expected to range between 24°C and 34°C. This variation in temperature is typical during periods of increased rainfall, as cloud cover and precipitation can lead to cooler daytime temperatures.
First half of Sep. 2024 also wet
Similar to the forecast for the second half of September 2024, most parts of Singapore recorded above-average rainfall in the first fortnight of the month. Localised short-duration thundery showers fell over parts of the island in the late morning and afternoon on most days. On Sep. 5, moderate to heavy thundery showers fell over many parts of Singapore in the late morning and early afternoon. Despite the rain, daily maximum temperatures in the first half of the month were between 32°C and 34°C on most days, with the highest daily maximum temperature of 35.2°C being recorded at Pulau Ubin on Sep. 1.
Future implications
The increased rainfall and cooler temperatures expected in the latter half of September 2024 could have several implications for residents and businesses in Singapore. For instance, the wet weather may lead to disruptions in outdoor activities and events. Additionally, the forecasted gusty winds and heavy showers could pose challenges for commuters and may result in localised flooding in low-lying areas. Residents are advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of the adverse weather conditions.
