Northeast Monsoon 2026/27: What Visitors to Johor Bahru Should Know

The Short Version

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) said the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon began on 27 October 2026 and is expected to last until March 2027. The early phase, November 2026 to January 2027, is when three to five episodes of continuous heavy rain are expected. Johor is among the affected states named. If you are visiting JB over the year-end holidays, plan for wet days and check the forecast before you travel. We read both sources below on 6 November 2026; this is not an official warning.

What the Forecasts Say

• Start and length: the monsoon was expected to begin on 27 October 2026 and continue until March 2027 (SAYS, 27 October 2026).
• Early phase: three to five episodes of continuous heavy rain between November 2026 and January 2027. From January to March 2027, rainfall is expected to decrease.
• States named: Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak.
• Flood preparation: The Vibes (27 October 2026) reports that authorities identified 3,682 flood hotspots nationwide, and the Fire and Rescue Department will mobilise 25,592 personnel, 1,248 assets and 29 rapid-response teams. It also says forward bases in Penang, Terengganu and Johor had been activated.
• Official advice: follow METMalaysia's forecasts and warnings, stay alert to flooding if you are in low-lying areas or near rivers, and move to relief centres if directed. The Vibes also points to the myCuaca app.

Sources: SAYS, 27 October 2026 and The Vibes, 27 October 2026, both checked 6 November 2026.

What We Could Not Confirm

• We found no Johor-specific flood warning or hotspot count for November 2026. The 3,682 figure is national.
• We did not find dates for the individual rain spells. Forecasts of this kind are normally updated as the season goes on, so check METMalaysia (met.gov.my) or myCuaca close to your travel date.
• We have no data on how the rain affects Causeway queues or bus timings this year, so we do not claim any.

Practical Planning for a JB Trip (Our Suggestions)

These are common-sense tips from the hostel desk, not statements from the forecasts above.

• Check the forecast the day before and the morning of: use myCuaca or the METMalaysia website rather than a general weather app.
• Keep your plan flexible: put outdoor sightseeing on a day with a lighter forecast, and keep indoor options ready. JB has malls and cafes within reach; see our Christmas and New Year guide and this fortnight's mall events.
• Pack for rain: a light rain jacket or compact umbrella, a waterproof bag cover or dry bag for your passport and phone, and quick-dry clothing.
• Crossing the border on foot or by bus: heavy rain is uncomfortable while queueing outdoors. Read the Causeway crossing guide and our year-end crossing tips, and leave extra time.
• Keep documents dry: passport, arrival cards and booking confirmations in a zip bag, with screenshots on your phone as backup.
• Follow local authorities: if the police or Fire and Rescue Department ask you to avoid an area, do so.

Rest Between Wet Days at Pelangi

Pelangi Capsule Hostel is at 26A Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, Johor Bahru. A capsule is RM35 per night, and RM30 for the first night if you are a first-time guest booking direct on our website. Check-in is from 2:00 PM. We accept payment in MYR and SGD. Book direct, see rooms, or contact us if your plans change with the weather.

FAQ

When is the 2026/27 Northeast Monsoon?

METMalaysia said it was expected to begin on 27 October 2026 and last until March 2027, with the heaviest early phase between November 2026 and January 2027.

Is Johor affected?

Yes. Johor is on the list of affected states in the SAYS report. We did not find a Johor-specific warning for November 2026.

Where do I check live weather warnings?

METMalaysia's website (met.gov.my) and the myCuaca app, as pointed to in the reports we read.