Menteri Besar Kedah Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has expressed concern over the state’s worsening water levels, warning that intervention measures such as cloud seeding may once again be necessary.
He said the situation is expected to mirror last year’s conditions, when cloud seeding operations were carried out by the Kedah State Water Resources Board with assistance from the Royal Malaysian Air Force over the Gubir Dam area.
“Alhamdulillah, after the operation, rain fell. The Muda Agricultural Development Authority also supported the effort, and this remains one of the initiatives we can undertake,” he told the media yesterday (27 March) during an Aidilfitri open house in Seri Mentaloon, Kedah.
Currently, water levels at key dams in Muda, Pedu and Ahning have dropped to a combined capacity of about 38%, raising concerns over supply sustainability. Despite this, Sanusi noted that major rivers across the state are still flowing well, citing Sungai Kedah as an example.
Attempt to encourage rainfall
Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique used to encourage rainfall or snowfall from clouds. Its main purpose is to enhance precipitation in situations where clouds already contain moisture but require a small “push” to release it.
He recalled visiting Gubir last year, when only the river remained and the reservoir had nearly dried up, adding that a similar pattern could be repeating this year, according to a statement posted on Facebook.
Sanusi urged all relevant agencies to take appropriate action in accordance with existing standard operating procedures to manage the situation effectively. He added that the ongoing harvesting season has somewhat eased water demand in the agricultural sector. With fields dry, harvesting activities have become more efficient, allowing machinery to operate without obstruction.
The Menteri Besar also highlighted the unpredictability of current weather patterns, noting that districts such as Padang Terap and Sik, despite their forested and hilly landscapes, are among the hottest areas recorded. As of 12 PM today (28 March), Kubang Pasu recorded the highest temperature in the state at 38 degrees Celsius.
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department, several districts in Kedah have reached high‑temperature alert levels, with some areas experiencing daily maximum temperatures exceeding 37 degrees Celsius for consecutive days.
Also read: “Cut shower time by 50%” – M’sians Urged to Limit Water Use & Car Washes Amid Ongoing Hot Weather
