Singapore experienced heavy rain and cooler temperatures last week, with flash flood warnings issued in several areas. The lowest temperature this year was recorded at 20.3°C. The Meteorological Service Singapore attributes this weather to La Nina, the Madden-Julian Oscillation, and the Northeast Monsoon, with disruption to residents' plans. Experts explain the causes and potential duration of the unusual weather.
The heavy rain and cooler temperatures are caused by the ongoing La Nina phase, the Madden-Julian Oscillation and the Northeast Monsoon.New: You can now listen to articles. Add CNA as a trusted source to help Google better understand and surface our content in search results.
SINGAPORE: Heavy rain this past week saw cooler temperatures across Singapore, with flash flood warnings issued in several areas, including Jurong East and Dunearn Road. On Thursday , the mercury dipped below 21°C at three stations, with the lowest temperature of 20.3°C recorded at Newton at 9.12pm, the Meteorological Service Singapore said on Friday. This was the lowest temperature recorded thus far this year, said the Met Service, noting that the lowest temperature recorded in 2025 was 21°C. According to the Met Service, a total rainfall of 166.7mm was also recorded from Feb 13 to Feb 19, exceeding the average monthly rainfall of 132.11mm for February. The highest daily rainfall of 148.6mm was recorded on Thursday at Margaret Drive, which also marked the highest daily rainfall recorded this year to date.Mr Shukor, 60, who works in the civil service sector, told CNA the heavy downpour prevented him from cycling to his neighbourhood mosque for prayers on Thursday, the first day of fasting for Ramadan. Mr Darroy Xie, 25, who works in the hospitality industry, also had his Chinese New Year plans disrupted because of the rain. On Wednesday, the second day of the celebration, he was late for a family dinner because it was difficult to book a taxi.CNA looks at what is causing this"aircon weather", is it unusual and how long can we expect it to continue?Assistant Professor Wang Jing Yu from the National Institute of Education said that the heavy rain and cool temperature are mainly due to an ongoing La Nina weather pattern. During La Nina, sea surface temperatures in the western Pacific become warmer than usual, leading to increased evaporation from the ocean, he said. "This surge in water vapour enhances cloud formation and subsequently results in more intense and frequent precipitation," Asst Prof Wang said. According to the Met Service, Singapore is currently under moderate La Nina conditions. The country last experienced La Nina inThe US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes the phenomenon as an eastward-moving disturbance of clouds, rainfall, winds and pressure changes. It travels through the tropics and typically cycles back to its original starting region every 30 to 60 days. The current MJO phase has reinforced an upward motion near Singapore, amplifying the rainfall intensity and extending the wet spell, said Prof Yim.ongoing Northeast Monsoon, which typically lasts from December to March, said the experts. Asst Prof Wang told CNA that during this period, cold air from the Northern Hemisphere sweeps over the South China Sea and pushes moisture and cloud formations towards Southeast Asia, particularly affecting regions including Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. Coupled with the La Nina phase, more moisture is added to the atmosphere, leading to heavier and more persistent rainfall while increasing the likelihood of flooding events across the region, he added. Prof Yim also attributed part of the current weather conditions to the active phase of the Northeast monsoon. "The persistent thick cloud cover reduces incoming solar radiation during the day, which suppresses surface heating and results in cooler daytime temperatures," said Prof Yim. As to whether the recent wet weather is part of the average monsoon cycle, Prof Yim said that it is still early to conclude, as the Met Service's February rainfall report has not yet been released. "Based on the available information, I would say the current wet and cooler conditions are broadly consistent with the typical characteristics of the Northeast Monsoon," said Prof Yim. "Active monsoon phases can produce several consecutive days of widespread rainfall and slightly suppressed daytime temperature due to persistent cloud cover," he added. The Met Service's website stated that the Northeast Monsoon conditions are expected to continue into the second half of February.NTU's Prof Yim said that active phases associated with monsoon surges typically last three to seven days. Though rainfall intensity may vary, there is no strong signal of a rapid transition to prolonged dry weather. "Instead, conditions are expected to gradually moderate once the prevailing moist northeasterly flow weakens," Prof Yim said.The prolonged wet spell is expected to ease by mid-March, said Asst Prof Wang, as the La Nina phase transitions into a neutral state and the Northeast monsoon gradually retreats.For the rest of February, conditions are expected to turn drier, though brief localised thundery showers may still occur on several afternoons," it said. We know it's a hassle to switch browsers but we want your experience with CNA to be fast, secure and the best it can possibly be.
Singapore La Nina Heavy Rainfall Cool Temperatures Weather
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Evolving Traditions: How Sustainability and Modernity Are Reshaping Chinese New Year in SingaporeChinese New Year celebrations in Singapore are undergoing transformations, with a focus on sustainability, technological advancements, and shifting generational perspectives. The Monetary Authority of Singapore encourages the use of 'fit' notes and e-hong baos. Traditional practices like buying new clothes and avoiding dark colors are also adapting. This article explores how modern lifestyles are reshaping the beloved traditions, making them more environmentally conscious and reflecting the evolving cultural landscape.
Read more »
Singapore Mobility Scooter Prices May Rise Due to New RegulationsSingapore retailers anticipate a price increase of up to 15% for mobility scooters starting June due to new registration and ownership transfer rules. This could impact senior citizens, with retailers citing increased transport, manpower, and administrative costs. While subsidies remain available, experts emphasize the need for effective enforcement to prevent misuse and maintain accessibility.
Read more »
Two crew members died, one evacuated in fire on board Singapore-registered vesselTwo crew members have died and another evacuated for treatment, following a fire on a Singapore-registered bulk carrier, off the coast of China. The Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) says the engine room fire was put out by the crew. There were 25 Myanmar crew members on board. No Singaporeans were among them.
Read more »
Singapore's Cinema Challenge: Bridging the Gap Between Local Films and AudiencesFilmmaker Phillip Lim discusses the challenges faced by Singaporean cinema, highlighting the disconnect between critical acclaim and local audience interest. He emphasizes the need for local films that resonate with Singaporeans, rather than solely focusing on international recognition, and explores the importance of storytelling and financial sustainability.
Read more »
Budget 2026: Preparing Singapore for the Future – A Deep Dive into Jobs, AI, and Societal ImpactThis week's Deep Dive episode examines the key themes of Budget 2026, focusing on jobs, AI integration, and the government's plans for Singapore's future. Discussions will explore the strategies for workforce adaptation, address social issues, and analyze the political landscape.
Read more »
PM Lawrence Wong Extends Warm Wishes to Muslims for RamadanPrime Minister Lawrence Wong conveys warm wishes to Muslims in Singapore at the beginning of Ramadan, emphasizing the importance of multiculturalism and mutual respect in Singapore. He highlighted the beautiful coexistence of different cultures and traditions in Singapore and acknowledged the measures taken by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore to ensure a meaningful Ramadan experience for the community.
Read more »