Category Archives: News

May 2, 2018

Wet Weather To Continue in First Half of May 2018

Inter-monsoon conditions to persist with prevailing winds that are light and variable in direction.  Expect mostly afternoon thundery showers with high lightning activities during the period. 

Singapore, 2 May 2018 – The prevailing inter-monsoon conditions are expected to persist over Singapore and the surrounding region in May 2018. The low level winds during the first fortnight of May 2018 are forecast to be light and variable in direction.

2          During the inter-monsoon period, weak prevailing winds coupled with strong solar heating of land areas make it conducive for the development of thunderstorm clouds which could grow to heights more than 10-12 km. Climatologically, the moderate to heavy thundery showers during the inter-monsoon months tend to fall more in the afternoon than at other times of the day. In addition, lightning activities tend to be more intense during this period. May has the second highest number of lightning occurrences after November.

3          The first fortnight of May 2018 is expected to be wet with most of the thundery showers falling in the first week of May 2018. During the fortnight, short-duration moderate to heavy thundery showers are expected mostly in the afternoon on six to eight days. On a few of these days, the thundery showers could start earlier in the late morning and extend into the afternoon. On one or two days in the fortnight, the prevailing winds could shift to blow from the southwest, and could bring widespread thundery showers with gusty winds to the island in the morning. The rainfall in the first fortnight of May 2018 is expected to be near normal.

4          May is climatologically one of the warmest months of the year. During the first fortnight of May 2018, the daily temperature is expected to range between 25°C and 33°C. A few warm days are expected during this period where the daily maximum temperature could reach a high of around 35°C on a few afternoons.

5         For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 30 April 2018)

6          Inter-monsoon conditions onset in early April 2018 and persisted for the rest of the month. The prevailing winds in April 2018 were predominately light and variable in direction.

7          In April 2018, most of the thundery showers experienced in Singapore fell in the afternoon due to strong daytime heating of land areas. On a few of these days, the thundery showers extended into the evening. The second half of April 2018 was wetter than the first half of the month, and the thundery showers were also more intense. The three highest daily total rainfall recorded in April 2018 were 83.0mm, 109.8mm and 138.0mm on 23 April, 20 April and 7 April 2018 respectively.

8          In April 2018, the daily maximum temperature ranged between 31.5°C and 35°C, and the daily minimum temperature ranged between 22.0°C to 25.5°C. The highest daily maximum temperature of 35°C was recorded at Pulau Ubin and Changi on 25 April 2018. This ties with the highest daily maximum temperature recorded in 2016 at the climate station in the last ten years. The highest daily maximum temperature recorded at any station across the island in the last ten years was 36.6°C at Pulau Ubin in 2016.

9         About two-thirds of Singapore received above-normal rainfall in April 2018. The lowest rainfall of 61.2 mm (59% below average) was recorded at Changi. Rainfall was highest around Choa Chu Kang where 408.1mm (58% above average) was recorded.

2018_April

 

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR MAY (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 32.2 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 25.4 °C
Mean monthly temperature 28.3 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 171.2 mm
Mean number of rain days 14
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 33.6 °C (1997)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 24.5 °C (1981,1982,1984,1989)
Highest monthly rainfall 370.8 mm (1998)
Lowest monthly rainfall 41.6 mm (1997)

April 16, 2018

Prevailing Inter-Monsoon Conditions To Bring More Thundery Showers In Next Fortnight

Inter-monsoon conditions have set in over Singapore.  Expect more short-duration moderate to heavy thundery showers in second half of April 2018 accompanied with high lightning activity.  A few warm days with maiximum temperature around 35 deg C expected. 

Singapore, 16 April 2018 – Inter-monsoon conditions have set in over Singapore and the surrounding region, and are forecast to persist for the rest of April and extend into May 2018. During this period, the low level winds are generally light and variable in direction.

2          The inter-monsoon period is characterised by warm weather and moderate to heavy thundery showers falling mostly in the afternoon and occasionally extending into the evening. Typically, thunderstorms during the inter-monsoon period are more intense than other times of the year. This is due to strong solar heating of land areas as the sun is closer to the Equator. April is climatologically the month with one of the highest number of lightning occurrences.

3          The second fortnight of April 2018 is forecast to be wetter than the first fortnight, with short-duration moderate to heavy thundery showers expected mainly in the afternoon on seven to nine days. Also in this fortnight, Sumatra squalls moving from the Strait of Malacca to the South China Sea could bring widespread thundery showers accompanied with gusty winds over Singapore on two or three days between the predawn hours and early morning. With the expected wetter conditions in the coming fortnight, the overall rainfall for April 2018 is likely to be near average.

4          Climatologically, April is one of the warmest months of the year. In the second half of April 2018, a few warm days can be expected. On most days, the daily temperatures are expected to range between 24°C and 34°C, and could reach a high of around 35°C on a few days. With expected widespread rain on a few days in the coming fortnight, the minimum temperature on these days could reach a low of around 23°C.

5         For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 15 April 2018)

6          The Northeast Monsoon conditions gave way to the inter-monsoon conditions in the first half of April 2018. The prevailing low level winds over Singapore became light and variable in direction having been predominantly blowing from the northeast or northwest for the past few months.

7          In the first half of April 2018, the strong daytime heating of the land area coupled with generally light winds during the day were conducive conditions for the development of thundery showers over Singapore. Most of the thundery showers fell in the afternoon and were more intense in the second week of April 2018. Rainfall was heaviest on 7 April 2018 around the MacRitchie Reservoir area where the daily total rainfall recorded was 138mm.

8          There were some warm days during the first fortnight of April 2018. The daily maximum temperature ranged between 33.2°C and 34.9°C, particularly over the northern and western parts of Singapore. The highest value of 34.9°C was recorded at Khatib in Yishun. The daily minimum temperature ranged from 22.5°C to 25.5°C.

9         About two-thirds of Singapore received below-normal rainfall in the first fortnight of April 2018. The lowest rainfall of 20.4mm (73% below average) was recorded at Changi. Rainfall was highest around Jurong where 219.8mm (66% above average) was recorded.

2018April

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR APRIL (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 32.3 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 25.0 °C
Mean monthly temperature 28.0 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 154.8 mm
Mean number of rain days 14
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 33.9 °C (1983)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 23.9 °C (1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 311.6 mm (2000)
Lowest monthly rainfall 43.1 mm (1983)

April 2, 2018

Expect Some Warm Days With The Onset Of Inter-Monsoon In the First Half Of April 2018

Inter-monsoon conditions with light and variable winds expected in 1st fortnight of April 2018. Expect afternoon thundery showers which can be intense at times, accompanied by high lightning activity. Some warms days expected.

Singapore, 2 April 2018 – In the first fortnight of April 2018, the low level northeasterly winds are forecast to gradually shift to become light and variable in direction. The change in conditions would signal the cessation of the Northeast Monsoon season and the start of the inter-monsoon period.

2        Inter-monsoon conditions are forecast to prevail in April and extend into May 2018. The period is characterised by warm weather and thunderstorms, at times intense, occurring in the afternoon and evening. During the inter-monsoon months, lightning activity tends to be higher than other months of the year.

3          The first fortnight of April 2018 is not expected to be as wet as the last two weeks of March 2018. In the first half of the month, short-duration thundery showers, which can be heavy at times, are expected in the afternoon and evening on seven to nine days. Overall, the rainfall for the first fortnight of April 2018 is expected to be below average.

4          April is climatologically one of the warmest months of the year. In the first half of April 2018, some warm days with daily maximum temperatures of around 34°C can be expected. On a few days when dry and warm weather conditions are forecast, the daily maximum temperatures could reach a high of around 35°C. The daily minimum temperature is forecast to range between 23°C and 25°C, with the lower temperature on 23°C likely when it rains for most parts of the day.

5         For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 31 March 2018)

6          Northeast Monsoon conditions prevailed in the region in March 2018. The low level winds over Singapore blew predominantly from the northeast or northwest.

7         In March 2018, most of the thundery showers occurred in the afternoon due to strong daytime heating of land areas and/or convergence of winds over Singapore or surrounding sea areas. The thundery showers were intense on a few afternoons. In particular, on 30 March 2018, the downdraft from an intense thunderstorm brought heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the western parts of Singapore around Choa Chu Kang and Jurong. The strongest wind gust recorded that day was 133.3 km/h at Tengah which was the strongest wind gust recorded since 2010. While the rainfall from the intense thunderstorm on 30 March 2018 was heavy, it did not record the highest daily rainfall for the month. The highest daily rainfall for March 2018 was 93.2mm recorded at Queenstown due to a heavy downpour in the afternoon of 24 March 2018.

8          The daily maximum and minimum temperature recorded in March 2018 ranged from 26.6°C to 35.7°C, and from 21.4°C to 24.7°C respectively. There were some warm days in March 2018 where the daily maximum temperature recorded on five of these days were in the 35°C range. The high daily maximum temperatures were recorded around the northern and western parts of the island around the Admiralty and Clementi areas.

9         Most parts of Singapore received well below-normal rainfall in March 2018. The lowest rainfall of 38mm (82% below average) was recorded at Paya Lebar. Rainfall was highest around Jurong area where 280.0mm (31% above average) was recorded.

2018March

[1] A monsoon surge refers to the strengthening of northeasterly winds blowing from a strong high-pressure system over the northern Asian continent toward the South China Sea, bringing periods of prolonged widespread rain and windy conditions to the surrounding region including Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. (Further information is available at  https://www.weather.gov.sg/learn_weather_systems/).

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR APRIL (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 32.3 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 25.0 °C
Mean monthly temperature 28.0 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 154.8 mm
Mean number of rain days 14
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 33.9 °C (1983)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 23.9 °C (1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 311.6 mm (2000)
Lowest monthly rainfall 43.1 mm (1983)

March 16, 2018

Some Warm Days Expected in Second Half of March 2018

Warm days with daily maximum temperature around 35°C expected on some days. Mostly short-duration thundery showers in the afternoon in second half of March 2018.

Singapore, 16 March 2018 – The prevailing Northeast Monsoon conditions with low level winds blowing predominantly from the northeast or northwest are forecast to persist for the rest of March 2018. A gradual transition of the low level winds to become light and variable in direction is expected around the end of the month, giving indication of the onset of the inter-monsoon period in early April 2018.

2         For the rest of March 2018, thundery showers due to daytime heating of land areas are expected on five to seven days. These showers are forecast to be of short-duration lasting around an hour or less in the afternoon, and extending into the evening on one or two of these days. On one or two mornings in the second half of March 2018, the eastward passage of Sumatra squall lines from the Strait of Malacca towards the South China Sea is forecast to bring thundery showers with gusty winds to Singapore. For the month as a whole, the total rainfall is forecast to be below the monthly average of 170.3mm.

3         On some days in the next fortnight, a mass of dry air from northern Asia is forecast to move over parts of Southeast Asia. The passage of dry air could bring fair and warm conditions over Singapore, and the daily maximum temperature on these days could reach up to 35°C. The daily maximum and minimum temperatures on most days in the fortnight are expected to rise to around 34°C and dip to low of around 24°C respectively.

4         For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, or the MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 15 March 2018)

5          In the first half of March 2018, Singapore and the surrounding region experienced Northeast Monsoon conditions with the low level winds blowing mainly from the northwest or northeast.

6         During the fortnight, most of the thundery showers fell in the afternoon arising from strong daytime heating of land areas and convergence of winds in the surrounding vicinity. In the second week of March 2018, there was a weak monsoon surge[1] that affected the South China Sea and the surrounding coastal land areas. The weak surge brought windy conditions and passing showers to Singapore on a few days. In the first fortnight of March 2018, rainfall was heaviest on 2 March 2018 at Ang Mo Kio, where the daily total rainfall recorded was 92.5mm.

7         There were a few warm weather days in the first half of March 2018. The highest daily maximum temperature was 35.7°C, recorded at Clementi on 3 March 2018. The daily minimum temperature recorded in the fortnight ranged between 22.6°C and 24.1°C.

8         Most parts of Singapore received well below-normal rainfall in the first half of March 2018. The lowest rainfall of 15mm (87% below average) was recorded in the eastern part of the island. Rainfall was highest at Choa Chu Kang where 130.1mm (7% above average) was recorded.

FortnightRain_Anomaly_201803a

 

[1] A monsoon surge refers to the strengthening of northeasterly winds blowing from a strong high-pressure system over the northern Asian continent toward the South China Sea, bringing periods of prolonged widespread rain and windy conditions to the surrounding region including Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. (Further information is available at  https://www.weather.gov.sg/learn_weather_systems/).

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR MARCH (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 32.0 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 24.6 °C
Mean monthly temperature 27.5 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 170.3 mm
Mean number of rain days 13
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 34.1 °C (1998)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 23.7 °C (1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 361.3 mm (1984)
Lowest monthly rainfall 34.3 mm (1997)

 

 

March 1, 2018

More Showers Expected in First Half of March 2018

More afternoon thundery showers expected in first half of March 2018 following a dry February 2018. A few warm days expected with daily maximum temperature around 34°C.

Singapore, 1 March 2018 – Singapore and the surrounding region will continue to experience Northeast Monsoon conditions in the first fortnight of March 2018. The low level winds during this period are forecast to blow mostly from the northwest or northeast.

2         In the first two weeks of March 2018, more showers are expected to fall over the island compared to the last fortnight of February 2018. The thundery showers are forecast mostly in the afternoon on seven to nine days arising mainly from daytime heating of land areas.  On a few of these days, the thundery showers are likely to extend into the evening. In addition, a weak monsoon surge[1] could affect the South China Sea and the surrounding region in the latter half of the fortnight. The surge is likely to bring windy conditions with passing showers and cooler temperatures to Singapore on a few days. The rainfall for the first two weeks of March 2018 is expected to be near normal.

3         The daily temperature on most days in the next fortnight is forecast to range between 23°C and 33°C. Warm conditions can be expected on a few days when the daily maximum temperature climbs to around 34°C.

4         For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, or the MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 28 February 2018)

5         February 2018 saw the onset of the dry phase of the Northeast Monsoon season. The low level winds blew predominantly from the north or northeast, and on the whole, there was not much rain that fell over the island.

6         In the first week of the month, a weak monsoon surge brought windy conditions with some passing showers to the island. Between 5 February and 14 February, a dry air mass from northern Asia was blown by the prevailing northerly to northeasterly winds to the Southeast Asia region, including Singapore. The dry air brought seven consecutive dry days between 7 February and 13 February, with no rainfall recorded over the island. The second half of February 2018 saw more showers compared to the first half of the month. The thundery showers fell mostly over the western, central and southern parts of the island in the afternoon and evening on several days due to daytime heating of land areas coupled with convergence of winds in the vicinity. The heaviest rainfall was recorded on 28 February 2018 where the 93.5mm of rain was recorded at the station in Woodlands.

7         In February 2018, the daily maximum temperature ranged between 29.4°C and 35.1°C, and the daily minimum temperature ranged between 22.0°C and 25.2°C. The highest temperature of 35.1°C was recorded at Choa Chu Kang on 22 February 2018.

8         Almost all parts of Singapore received well below-normal rainfall in February 2018. The lowest rainfall of 17mm (87% below average) was recorded in eastern Singapore. Rainfall was highest at Choa Chu Kang where 148.2mm (4% above average) was recorded.

FortnightRain_Anomaly_28Feb2018

 

[1] A monsoon surge refers to the strengthening of northeasterly winds blowing from a strong high-pressure system over the northern Asian continent toward the South China Sea, bringing periods of prolonged widespread rain and windy conditions to the surrounding region including Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. (Further information is available at  https://www.weather.gov.sg/learn_weather_systems/).

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR MARCH (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 32.0 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 24.6 °C
Mean monthly temperature 27.5 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 170.3 mm
Mean number of rain days 13
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 34.1 °C (1998)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 23.7 °C (1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 361.3 mm (1984)
Lowest monthly rainfall 34.3 mm (1997)

February 14, 2018

Lunar New Year Expected to be Warm with Afternoon Thundery Showers

The second fortnight of February 2018 expected to be warmer and wetter than the first fortnight of the month. Warm conditions with afternoon thundery showers expected for Lunar New Year weekend.

Singapore, 14 February 2018 – In the second fortnight of February 2018, the prevailing Northeast Monsoon conditions over Singapore and the region will continue to persist and extend into early March 2018. During this period, the low level winds are forecast to blow predominantly from the northeast or northwest.

2          The second half of February 2018 is forecast to be wetter than the first half of the month. Short-duration thundery showers due to strong day-time heating of land areas coupled with convergence of winds, are expected mostly in the afternoon on six to eight days. On a few of these days, the thundery showers may extend into the evening. The rainfall for February 2018 is likely to be below normal.

3          The second fortnight of February 2018 is also expected to be warmer than the first fortnight of February 2018. Some warm days can be expected where the daily maximum temperature could reach a high of around 34°C. On most days, the daily maximum temperature is forecast to be around 32°C or 33°C while the daily minimum temperature is expected to range between 23°C and 24°C.

4          For the Lunar New Year holiday period, the weather is expected to be warm with thundery showers in the afternoon, and the daily temperature is forecast to range between 24°C and 34°C.

5         For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, or the MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 13 January 2018)

6         The Northeast Monsoon conditions prevail during the first fortnight of February 2018 with the low level winds over the region blowing predominantly from the north or northeast.

7          In the first week of February 2018, a weak monsoon surge [1] between 2 February and 5 February brought windy conditions with occasional showers on 2 February, and passing showers on subsequent days during the period. For the rest of the first fortnight, the weather was fair and occasionally windy due to the passage of a dry air mass from northern Asia. The highest total daily rainfall recorded in the first fortnight of February 2018 was 16.6mm around the Ulu Pandan area on 2 February 2018.

8          During the first two weeks of February 2018, the daily maximum temperature ranged between 29.4°C and 33.7°C, and the daily minimum temperature ranged between 22°C and 25.2°C. The lowest temperature of 22°C was recorded over Pulau Ubin on 8 and 10 February 2018.

9      Singapore received well below-normal rainfall in the first two weeks of February 2018. The highest rainfall of 22.4mm (66% below average) was recorded around the south-western part of Singapore. Rainfall was lowest around the Jurong west area where 4.2mm (94% below average) was recorded.

FortnightRain_Anomaly_1-13 Feb2018

[1] A monsoon surge refers to the strengthening of northeasterly winds blowing from a strong high-pressure system over the northern Asian continent toward the South China Sea, bringing periods of prolonged widespread rain and windy conditions to the surrounding region including Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. (Further information is available at  https://www.weather.gov.sg/learn_weather_systems/).

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR FEBRUARY (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 31.7 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 24.3 °C
Mean monthly temperature 27.1 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 112.8 mm
Mean number of rain days 8
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 33.5 °C (2010)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 23.0 °C (1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 470.4 mm (1984)
Lowest monthly rainfall 6.3 mm (2010)

February 1, 2018

Start of Dry Phase of Northeast Monsoon in First Half of February 2018

The first fortnight of February 2018 expected to be dry and warm. Short-duration thundery showers expected in the afternoon on some days.

Singapore, 1 February 2018 – The prevailing Northeast Monsoon will continue into the first half of February 2018. For the next fortnight, dry, warm and occasionally windy conditions are expected over Singapore as the region enters the dry phase of the Northeast Monsoon season. During this period, the low level winds are forecast to blow predominantly from the northeast or northwest.

2           Compared with the very wet weather experienced in January 2018, the first half of February 2018 is forecast to be relatively dry with some warm days. Short-duration thundery showers are expected in the afternoon on three to five days. In addition, a weak monsoon surge [1] could affect the South China Sea and the surrounding region in the early part of the month. The surge is expected to bring windy conditions with passing showers and cooler temperatures to Singapore on a few days. The rainfall for the first fortnight of February 2018 is expected to be below normal.

3           In the first half of February 2018, the daily temperatures are forecast to range between 24°C and 33°C, and could reach a high of around 34°C on a few days. Cooler temperatures can be expected with daily minimum temperatures ranging between 23°C and 24°C on windy or rainy days.

4          For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 31 January 2018)

5          January 2018 was an eventful month for Singapore weather. The first week of January 2018 saw moderate to heavy thundery showers from three different weather systems – localised thunderstorms, Sumatra squalls and monsoon surges. In the last week of the month, hailstones and a waterspout were observed on 30 and 31 January respectively.

6          On most days of the month, thundery showers fell over Singapore in the afternoon and evening. On the morning of 8 January, a Sumatra squall brought widespread thundery showers to the island with the eastern parts of Singapore receiving the heaviest rainfall. The heavy rain resulted in flash floods in several places, and the highest total daily rainfall recorded was 131.8mm in the Paya Lebar area.

7          In the first half of January 2018, there were two occurrences of monsoon surge. The monsoon surge on 1 January was the tail-end of a 3-day monsoon surge episode that started on 30 December 2017. The second monsoon surge episode from 10 to 14 January brought five consecutive days of cool weather, with daily minimum temperatures dipping to as low as 21.2°C; this was the longest cool spell in Singapore in the last ten years. Both monsoon surge episodes brought overcast skies, windy conditions and widespread rain to Singapore and the surrounding region.

8          On 30 January 2018, intense thunderstorms brought heavy rainfall with strong winds over many areas of the island. Hailstones were observed in some parts of northern Singapore including Seletar and Yishun. The following day, another intense thunderstorm event brought strong winds and heavy rainfall to the eastern parts of Singapore. A waterspout also developed over the sea areas off the east coast of Singapore.

9          In January 2018, the daily maximum temperature ranged between 24.3°C and 34.9°C. and the daily minimum temperature was between 21.2°C and 24.1°C. The lowest temperature recorded was 21.2°C at Admiralty and Jurong West on 14 January 2018 during a monsoon surge. At the Changi climate station, the mean monthly temperature of 26.2°C for January 2018 is 0.3°C below the long-term mean for January.

10       Singapore received well above normal rainfall in January 2018. The highest rainfall of 502.4mm (119% above average) was recorded at Paya Lebar. Rainfall was lowest around the Changi area where 272.6mm (16% above average) was recorded.

 

FortnightRain_Anomaly_201801bb

[1] A monsoon surge refers to the strengthening of northeasterly winds blowing from a strong high-pressure system over the northern Asian continent toward the South China Sea, bringing periods of prolonged widespread rain and windy conditions to the surrounding region including Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. (Further information is available at  https://www.weather.gov.sg/learn_weather_systems/).

 

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR FEBRUARY (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 31.7 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 24.3 °C
Mean monthly temperature 27.1 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 112.8 mm
Mean number of rain days 8
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 33.5 °C (2010)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 23.0 °C (1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 470.4 mm (1984)
Lowest monthly rainfall 6.3 mm (2010)

January 16, 2018

Less Wet Weather Expected in The Next Fortnight

Short-duration thundery showers expected between the afternoon and evening on most days in the next fortnight. Rainfall expected to be well-above normal in January 2018.

Singapore, 16 January 2018 – The prevailing Northeast Monsoon season is forecast to continue into the second fortnight of 2018. For the next two weeks, the low level winds over Singapore and the surrounding region are forecast to blow mostly from the northeast or northwest.

2           The second fortnight of January 2018 is not expected to be as wet as the first fortnight of the month. In the second half of the month, five to seven days of short-duration thundery showers are expected in the afternoon, and could extend into the evening on a few days. The passage of Sumatra squalls is expected to bring widespread thundery showers coupled with occasional gusty winds over Singapore between the predawn and early morning on one or two days. Overall, the rainfall for January 2018 is expected to be well above normal.

3            During the second fortnight of January 2018, the daily temperatures are forecast to range between 24°C and 32°C. On some rainy days, cooler temperatures can be expected with the daily maximum temperature ranging between 27°C and 29°C, and the daily minimum temperature ranging between 23°C and 24°C.

4          For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 16 January 2018)

5          Northeast Monsoon conditions prevailed over Singapore and the surrounding region in the first two weeks of 2018. The low level winds during this first fortnight were predominantly from the northeast or northwest, and rain fell over the island almost every day.

6          A monsoon surge affected the South China Sea and the surrounding region over three days from 30 December 2017 to 1 January 2018. On 1 January 2018, as the surge weakened, the day was cloudy and occasionally windy, accompanied by periods of light to moderate rain. It was also cool with daily temperatures ranging from 22.7°C to 27.3°C. On several days in the first week of the year, moderate to heavy thundery showers fell in the afternoon and evening due to strong solar heating of land areas coupled with convergence of winds. On 8 January, a temporary change in the winds to blow from the southwest led to the passage of a Sumatra squall in the predawn hours and morning. The squall brought widespread thundery showers over the island, with the rainfall station at Paya Lebar recording 131.8mm of rain in a day. This was the highest total daily rainfall recorded in the first fortnight of January 2018.

7          In the second week of January 2018, another monsoon surge affected the South China Sea and the region between 10 and 14 January. The surge brought overcast skies, windy conditions and widespread rain to Singapore for five consecutive days. Over this period, the daily maximum temperature was between 24.3°C and 28.5°C while the daily minimum temperature dipped to a low of between 21.2°C and 22.4°C.

8          In the first fortnight of 2018, the daily maximum temperature ranged between 24.3°C and 33.2°C, and the daily minimum temperatures ranged between 21.2°C and 23.7°C. The lowest temperature of 21.2°C was recorded on 14 January 2018 at Admiralty and Jurong West.

9          Singapore received significantly above normal rainfall in the first fortnight of January 2018. The highest rainfall of 339.4mm (206% above average) was recorded at Paya Lebar. Rainfall was lowest around the Bukit Panjang area where 162.5mm (44% above average) was recorded.

FortnightRain_Anomaly_201801a

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR JANUARY (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 30.4 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 23.9 °C
Mean monthly temperature 26.5 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 234.6 mm
Mean number of rain days 13
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 31.8 °C (1998)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 22.6 °C (1981, 1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 600.9 mm (2004)
Lowest monthly rainfall 15.4 mm (1997)

January 11, 2018

MSS Releases Review Of 2017’s Weather And Climate For Singapore

2017 is the warmest year on record not influenced by an El Niño event 

Singapore, 11 January 2018 – A review of the weather and climate in 2017 was released today by the Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS). It summarises the main climatic features and notable weather events that affected Singapore and is a prelude to the comprehensive Annual Climate Assessment Report which will be released on World Meteorological Day in March 2018. The review is available on MSS’ website at https://www.weather.gov.sg (refer to Annex A for an infographic on Singapore’s Climate in 2017).

2          2017 is the warmest year on record that was not influenced by an El Niño event, indicative of the long-term temperature rise that Singapore has been experiencing due to factors such as global warming and urbanisation. After two successive record warm years in 2015 and 2016, the 2017 mean annual temperature at 27.7°C has returned to a level closer to the 1981-2010 long-term average. This is still 0.2°C warmer than the long-term average and the joint 12th warmest year on record since Singapore temperature records started in 1929.

Neutral El Niño Southern Oscillation

3          The El Niño Southern Oscillation[1] (ENSO), a naturally occurring phenomena and a major contributor to year-to-year rainfall and temperature variations over Singapore and Southeast Asia, was neutral throughout 2017 (except in November and December where it reached borderline La Niña values). Given the influence ENSO can have on temperatures, it is not surprising that following 2015’s large El Niño event which contributed to 2015 and 2016 being successive record warm years, no temperature record was broken in 2017.

4          There was a mixture of above and below normal level rainfall for the individual months in 2017, but overall the annual total rainfall was close to normal. This is more likely to be observed during a largely neutral ENSO year. The annual total rainfall of 2,045.6mm recorded was around 6 per cent below the long-term average of 2,165.9mm.

Notable weather events in 2017           

5          While 2017 was not an El Niño year, some very warm days were experienced in certain months. October 2017 in particular was warm, with temperatures soaring to above 35°C on some days. Based on the Changi climate station, the hottest day in 2017 was on 18 October 2017 with a high of 34.6°C. The normally cool months of January and December also saw warmer than usual temperatures on some days.

6          Heavy rains from intense thunderstorms caused several incidents of flash floods during the year. There were also occasional incidents of fallen trees and branches due to strong wind gusts from Sumatra squalls, and there was a high frequency of these squalls in 2017. On 18 June 2017, a waterspout associated with thunderstorm clouds was observed off Singapore’s southern coast.

7          Northeast Monsoon rains contributed to a wet February and December in 2017. The 15 rain days recorded in February 2017 was almost twice the long-term average for February, a normally dry month. The year ended on a wet note as the island experienced widespread intermittent rain from a monsoon surge and a nearby vortex in the South China Sea. High rainfall on the last two days of December 2017 raised the month’s total rainfall to 371.2mm (17 per cent above the long-term average), making December the wettest month of 2017.

[1] El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a recurring climate pattern caused by interactions between the atmosphere and the ocean in the tropical Pacific. During El Niño, the central-eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean is warmer than usual, leading to drier and warmer conditions especially during the June to October period over Southeast Asia. During La Niña, the central-eastern equatorial Pacific is cooler than average and the atmosphere over the Southeast Asia region is typically wetter than average. El Niño or La Niña events occur on average once every three to five years.

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Annex A 

Singapore Climate 2017

January 2, 2018

First Two Weeks of 2018 Expected to be Wet

Wet weather conditions expected in the first fortnight of 2018. Short-duration thundery showers between the afternoon and evening on some days, and occasionally windy conditions with widespread moderate to heavy rain and cool temperatures on a few days due to a monsoon surge.

Singapore, 2 January 2018 – The prevailing Northeast Monsoon season is forecast to continue into the first fortnight of 2018. During the next two weeks, the low level winds over Singapore and the surrounding vicinity are expected to blow mainly from the northeast or northwest.

2           The wet weather conditions experienced in Singapore in the last few days of December 2017 are expected to continue in the first half of January 2018. During the two weeks, moderate to heavy thundery showers are forecast in the afternoon on six to eight days. On a few of these days, the thundery showers could extend into the early evening. A monsoon surge[1] could affect the South China Sea and the surrounding region in the latter half of the fortnight. The surge is expected to bring a few days of occasionally windy conditions with widespread moderate to heavy rain and cooler temperatures to Singapore. Rainfall for the first half of January 2018 is expected to be above normal.

3           During the first fortnight of January 2018, slightly cooler night-time minimum temperatures of 23°C to 24°C can be expected. The maximum day-time temperatures are likely to range between 31°C and 33°C.

4          For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (https://www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app, MSS’ Weather@SG app.

REVIEW (1 – 31 December 2017)

5          Northeast Monsoon conditions prevailed over Singapore and the surrounding region in December 2017, and the low level winds were predominantly from the northeast or northwest.

6          In early December 2017, strong solar heating of land areas coupled with convergence of winds brought moderate to heavy thundery showers over Singapore in the afternoon and early evening on several days. In the third week of the month, the presence of two consecutive tropical storms in the South China Sea had an influence on the weather and wind conditions in the surrounding region. Winds over Singapore shifted to blow from the southwest and the passage of Sumatra squalls across the island brought widespread thundery showers in the predawn hours and morning on a few days.  In the last week of the month, a monsoon surge on 30-31 December 2017 brought overcast and occasionally windy conditions with periods of widespread moderate to heavy rain to Singapore. The highest total daily rainfall recorded in December 2017 was 149.6mm around the Buona Vista area on 31 December 2017.

7          In December 2017, the daily maximum temperatures ranged between 26.8°C and 35.1°C, and the daily minimum temperatures ranged between 22.3°C and 25.6°C. At the climate station, the daily maximum temperature of 33.5°C recorded on 1 December 2017 is among the top five daily maximum temperature on record for December since 1929. In addition, the mean monthly temperature of 27.1°C for December 2017 is 0.7°C above the long-term mean for December.

8          About half of Singapore received above normal rainfall in December 2017. The highest rainfall of 502.4mm (65% above average) was recorded around the Seletar area. Rainfall was lowest around the Bukit Panjang area where 211.6mm (28% below average) was recorded.

[1] A monsoon surge refers to the strengthening of northeasterly winds blowing from a strong high-pressure system over the northern Asian continent toward the South China Sea, bringing periods of prolonged widespread rain and windy conditions to the surrounding region including Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. (Further information is available at  https://www.weather.gov.sg/learn_weather_systems/)

FortnightRain_Anomaly_201712b_31 Dec 2017

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS FOR JANUARY (Climatological reference period: 1981 – 2010)

Mean daily maximum temperature 30.4 °C
Mean daily minimum temperature 23.9 °C
Mean monthly temperature 26.5 °C
Mean rainfall for the month 234.6 mm
Mean number of rain days 13
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature 31.8 °C (1998)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature 22.6 °C (1981, 1982)
Highest monthly rainfall 600.9 mm (2004)
Lowest monthly rainfall 15.4 mm (1997)