THE hot and dry weather in the afternoon is encouraging fires, while strong winds are further intensifying them, meteorologist U Win Naing said.
From 9 to 15 January, daytime temperatures will remain above 30 °C in all regions except Chin, Kachin, Shan, Kayah and northern Karen states, and fire hazards should be cautioned as there are strong winds, he said.
“It is currently the cold season. Cold, dry air currents from the north and northeast are entering Myanmar. The northeast monsoon is strong in the South China Sea, and there are winds from the east. Daytime temperatures in Myanmar are rising from about 30°C to 34°C. And there are scattered wildfires. So, all conditions favour fire breakouts. It is time to be careful,” he said.
Since the first week of January, daytime temperatures have been rising and nighttime temperatures have been gradually falling, with the highest and lowest temperatures occurring around 2 pm and 6 am respectively.
Nighttime temperatures are expected to drop below 20 °C in all regions except southern Karen, southern Mon states, and Taninthayi Region. Therefore, it is recommended to be careful of cold temperatures during the night and morning, and of fire hazards in the afternoon, he added. — MT/ZN
