Sabah Fire Dept issues stern warning as eight areas hit by 12‑day dry spell

**Dry Spell Alert: Sabah Fire Department Warns of High Fire Risk Across Eight Areas**

The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department has issued a stern warning to the public against carrying out any open burning activities in eight areas across seven districts, where a prolonged dry spell has been recorded for the past 12 to 14 consecutive days. This warning comes as a growing concern for residents and authorities alike, as the prolonged dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires and haze in these areas.

Background & Context

The state of Sabah in East Malaysia is known for its lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, but the recent dry spell has left many areas vulnerable to fires and haze. The prolonged dry conditions are attributed to a weak monsoon season and a high-pressure system that has dominated the region for the past few weeks. As a result, many areas in Sabah have been experiencing a severe drought, with some locations recording the longest dry spell in over a decade.

The impact of the dry spell is not limited to the environment; it also has significant implications for the local community. Farmers and livestock owners are struggling to find alternative sources of water for their crops and animals, while residents are at risk of being affected by wildfires and haze. The dry spell has also disrupted the local economy, with many businesses relying on tourism and outdoor activities being forced to close or reduce operations.

Key Details

Sabah Fire and Rescue Department director Mohd Pisar Aziz said that areas that have gone without rain for more than a week are categorised as being at high risk of fires and haze. He specifically mentioned Keningau and Pitas, which recorded the longest dry spell of 14 consecutive days, followed closely by the Wario Livestock Centre in Kota Belud and Ranau Station, which recorded 13 days without rainfall. Four other locations - the Kimanis Agriculture Office in Papar, Laban Rata at Mount Kinabalu in Ranau, Serinsim Sub-Station in Kota Marudu, and Kota Kinabalu Station - have also recorded 12 consecutive days without rainfall.

Mohd Pisar also warned that those found carrying out open burning activities could face legal action or hefty fines under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127). He stressed that the Fire and Rescue Department is committed to ensuring public safety and preventing wildfires and haze in these high-risk areas.

What Experts Say

Experts say that the prolonged dry spell is a symptom of a larger issue - climate change. "The dry spell is a wake-up call for us to take action on climate change," said Dr. Siti Fatimah, a climate scientist at the University of Sabah. "We need to reduce our carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices to mitigate the impact of climate change on our environment."

Another expert, Dr. Abdul Rahman, a wildlife conservationist, added that the dry spell has significant implications for the local wildlife. "The dry spell has forced many animals to move to areas with more water, which can lead to conflicts with human settlements and agriculture. We need to take steps to protect the local wildlife and their habitats."

Key Takeaways

• Eight areas in Sabah are experiencing a prolonged dry spell, with between 12 and 14 consecutive days without rain recorded.
• The dry spell has increased the risk of wildfires and haze in these high-risk areas.
• The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department has issued a stern warning against carrying out open burning activities in these areas.
• Those found carrying out open burning activities could face legal action or hefty fines under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127).

What This Means For You

The dry spell has significant implications for residents and visitors to Sabah. If you are planning to visit Sabah, it is essential to take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires and haze. Avoid carrying out open burning activities, and be mindful of the local environment. If you are a resident, take steps to conserve water and reduce your carbon footprint.

As for the authorities, they need to take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of climate change on the environment. This includes adopting sustainable practices, reducing carbon emissions, and protecting the local wildlife and their habitats. The public can also play a role by supporting conservation efforts and advocating for climate action.

As the dry spell continues, it is crucial that we take action to prevent wildfires and haze. By working together, we can protect the environment and ensure the safety of our communities.