Squalls are sudden, powerful storms often accompanied by heavy rain, thunder, and lightning.
Image: Arti Mulchand
These intense weather events usually form over large water bodies and sweep across land rapidly, posing hazards to safety and infrastructure. In Singapore, a specific type known as the Sumatra squall frequently develops over the Strait of Malacca before sweeping across the island.
A Sumatra squall swept across Singapore over a two-hour period on the evening of 17 September, 2024.
On the evening of 17 September 2024, a Sumatra squall swept across Singapore between 7pm to 8.30pm. The highest wind gust recorded was 83.2km/h at East Coast Park around 7.33pm. The squall caused some damage, including fallen trees, blocked roads and property damage across various parts of the island.
According to a 2020 report by the Met Service, Singapore experiences an average of 45 squalls per year, making these events a common but potentially dangerous aspect of the local climate. As extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity worldwide, Singapore must remain prepared for such incidents in the future.
Here are some tips to stay safe:
Safety Tips During a Squall in Singapore
Stay Indoors: If possible, remain indoors until the storm has passed. Avoid outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, or water sports.
Secure Loose Items: Ensure that outdoor furniture, plants, and other objects that could become projectiles in high winds are secured.
Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Flooding can occur rapidly, so avoid driving or walking through flood-prone areas during heavy rainfall. If you are driving and get stuck in traffic, try to stay in the middle lane, as water tends to collect on the sides of the road.
Monitor Weather Updates: Keep track of real-time weather alerts via local authorities or mobile apps for timely information.
Stay Away from Trees: Avoid staying near trees or large structures that could fall or shed branches during strong winds.
As extreme weather events continue to increase in frequency and intensity, staying informed and prepared can help mitigate the risks posed by squalls and other dangerous storms.
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