The warning on strong winds and rough seas at the east coast of peninsular Malaysia has been upgraded to the second level today with waves expected to reach a height of 4.5 metres.  

According to a Meteorological Department statement, issued in Kuala Lumpur today, strong north-easterly wind with a speed of 50 to 60kph is expected to hit the waters of Kelantan, Terengganu, Samui, Condore, Reef North, Layang-Layang and Palawan until Jan 3.

Meanwhile, strong winds with a speed of 40-50kph as well as waves reaching a height of 3.5 meters are expected in waters off Pahang, East Johor, Tioman, interior of Sabah, as well as the West Coast, Kudat, and Sandakan in Sabah, Labuan, Sarawak, Bunguran, Reef South and Sulu during the period.

The coasts of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and East Johor are also expected to be exposed to rising sea waters until next Wednesday, according to the department.

The strong winds and rough seas are dangerous to all activities of shipping, small ferry service, sea recreation and sea sports including fishing, the statement said.

- Bernama