| MYGP CLINICS | PATIENT HEALTH UPDATE |
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HEAT & HEALTH / AUGUST 2026
Super El Niño may be on the way
Malaysia could face a hotter, drier period from October. Prepare now to protect yourself and your family.
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FORECAST, NOT A GUARANTEE. MetMalaysia says international climate models indicate a greater than 90% chance of a very strong El Niño between October and December 2026.
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According to news report
- El Niño is expected to strengthen toward the end of 2026, bringing possible hotter, drier conditions and longer rain-free periods.
- The most pronounced temperature increase may occur between February and May 2027.
- Malaysia recorded 40.1°C at Chuping, Perlis, during the 1997–98 El Niño. This is a historical comparison, not a prediction for every location.
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Who should take extra care?
Outdoor workers and athletes; children aged five and under; adults aged 40 and above; and people with respiratory disease, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes or thyroid conditions.
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Six ways to stay safer
- Drink before you feel thirsty. Carry water and drink regularly. Ask your doctor for advice if your fluids are medically restricted.
- Plan around the heat. Limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Dress for cooling. Wear lightweight, loose, light-coloured clothing and use a hat, umbrella and SPF 30+ sunscreen.
- Cool your body and home. Use cool showers, damp cloths and cooler indoor spaces.
- Never leave anyone in a parked vehicle. Children, older adults and animals can overheat rapidly.
- Check on people at higher risk. Pay particular attention to older adults and people with heart, lung or kidney conditions.
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Know the difference
HEAT EXHAUSTION
- Heavy sweating, headache or dizziness
- Weakness, nausea, cramps or faintness
- Move to a cool place and loosen clothing
- Cool the skin and sip water
- Seek medical care if symptoms worsen or recovery is not prompt
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HEATSTROKE — EMERGENCY
- Confusion, unusual behaviour or slurred speech
- Collapse, seizure or very high body temperature
- Call 999 immediately
- Move the person somewhere cooler and begin cooling
- Do not give fluids to a confused or unconscious person
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TAKE REGULAR MEDICINES? Some conditions and medicines affect how the body handles heat. Do not stop prescribed medicine; ask your MYGP doctor for individual advice.
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Feeling unwell in the heat?
Speak with an MYGP Clinics doctor or visit your nearest branch.
Find an MYGP Clinic
+60 12-873 9886
enquiries@mygpclinics.com
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SOURCES
New Straits Times / Bernama forecast report
Ministry of Health Malaysia: Hot-weather advice
World Health Organization: Beat the Heat
Health information only and not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Weather forecasts can change. Follow METMalaysia and official local advisories.
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