Malaysia heat alert: Several districts hit heat wave levels as temperatures rise above 37°C

As of 24 March 2026, three districts in Kedah have entered heat wave status, while multiple regions across Peninsular Malaysia remain under caution alerts, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C.

Malaysia is experiencing a fresh wave of hot weather conditions, with the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) reporting elevated temperatures across several states as of 23 March 2026.

According to the latest update recorded at 6am on 24 March 2026, multiple areas in Peninsular Malaysia have entered varying stages of hot weather alerts, ranging from stage one to three.

Stage one (be careful): Widespread caution across multiple states

A wide group of districts are currently under stage one (be careful) status, where daily maximum temperatures of 35°C to 37°C have been recorded for at least three consecutive days.

These areas include:

• Jerantut and Raub in Pahang
• Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
• Kinta, Kuala Kangsar, Hulu Perak, and Selama in Perak
• Bandar Baharu, Kulim, Kuala Muda, Kubang Pasu, Padang Terap, and Sik in Kedah
• Timur Laut and Daerah Utara in Pulau Pinang
• Pulau Langkawi in Kedah
• Perlis

Stage two (heat wave): Kedah districts record higher temperatures

Three districts in Kedah — Pokok Sena, Pendang, and Baling — have escalated to stage two (heat wave) status.

This indicates daily maximum temperatures exceeding 37°C up to 40°C for at least three consecutive days, reflecting more intense and potentially dangerous heat conditions.

Stage three (extreme heat wave): No areas recorded

At present, no districts have reached stage three (extreme heat wave), which would involve temperatures exceeding 40°C for at least three consecutive days.

Health ministry reports heat-related cases

Alongside the rising temperatures, Malaysia’s Ministry of Health Malaysia has reported a number of heat-related incidents in 2026.

Dzulkefly Ahmad, Minister of Health shared that the country has recorded:

• 15 heat-related cases
• Three heat stroke cases
• One death involving a child left in a vehicle

Early signs and at-risk groups to watch

The Ministry stressed that heat stroke is preventable and does not occur suddenly, urging the public to recognise early warning signs.

Among the early symptoms highlighted are:

• Prolonged dizziness
• Excessive thirst
• Rising body temperature

Those most at risk include:

• Babies and young children
• People with chronic illnesses
• Elderly
• Individuals who spend long periods outdoors or are physically active in the heat

Preventive measures for individuals and workplaces

As temperatures continue to climb, authorities are advising both individuals and employers to take proactive steps to reduce heat exposure.

Key recommendations include:

• Drinking at least eight glasses of water daily
• Increasing fluid intake during physical activity (200-250ml every 15-20 minutes)
• Avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours
• Scheduling exercise in the morning or evening
• Spending more time in shaded or air-conditioned environments
• Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing
• Using umbrellas or hats when outdoors
• Reducing intake of caffeinated and sugary drinks
• Consuming water-rich fruits
• Never leaving children unattended in vehicles

A growing need for vigilance

While Malaysia has yet to reach extreme heat wave levels, the current spread of stage one and stage two alerts signals a need for continued vigilance.

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Lead image / Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia)