Heavy Downpours and Cooler Temperatures Expected, With Rainfall Forecast Above Average for the Second Half of March
Singapore is bracing for the third monsoon surge of 2025, set to occur from March 19 to 21, bringing heavy rain and a slight dip in temperatures. The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) has warned that the surge may provide a break from recent heatwaves, with temperatures potentially dropping to around 22°C during moderate to heavy showers.
This surge, typically characterised by prolonged and widespread rain, is expected to bring cooler conditions to the island, as well as a higher chance of flash floods due to intense rainfall. MSS forecasts that rainfall for the second half of March 2025 will be above average across much of Singapore, contributing to the cooler weather.
Following the surge, daily temperatures are expected to fluctuate between 24°C and 34°C for the rest of the month. Meanwhile, the first half of March saw temperatures reaching highs of 28.2°C to 35.1°C, with several days surpassing 34°C. Despite some afternoon thundery showers, the overall rainfall in the first half of March was below average.
Monsoon surges, although more common during the north-east monsoon season from December to January, also occur in the later months of the season. These surges involve cold air from Central Asia, which travels over the South China Sea and brings significant rain, strong winds, and cooler weather. Singapore typically experiences two to four such surges annually.
As the surge approaches, the national water agency PUB has issued a warning about the potential for flash floods, especially in areas where drains and canals might be overwhelmed. They have advised commuters to adjust their travel plans between March 19 and 21 and stay updated on flood risks using PUB’s Telegram alerts.
Recent monsoon surge events, such as the ones in January, caused substantial rainfall and localised flooding, impacting businesses in the Chinatown Street Market and Chinese New Year bazaars. With Ramadan bazaars now in full swing across the island, business owners in areas like Geylang Serai and Kampong Glam are urged to stay vigilant.
The last instance of late-season monsoon surges occurred between February and March 2023, when cool weather and widespread rainfall affected the region. During that time, temperatures dropped to a low of 21.1°C in Newton, marking the coolest temperature of the year.
As Singapore prepares for another monsoon surge, residents are advised to stay informed and prepared for the potential weather disruptions.
