Singapore experienced a month of extreme weather in November 2024, with record-breaking rainfall, followed by unprecedented heat in early December, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA).

November saw an average rainfall of 419.0 mm, the highest for the month since records began in 1980. This figure exceeded the long-term November average by 47.4 percent and broke the previous record of 390.1 mm set in November 1992.

The heavy rainfall peaked on November 16, causing a flash flood in northwestern Singapore, as the area experienced one of its highest single-day rainfalls in 46 years.

The heat wave followed shortly after the wet spell, with Singapore recording its hottest December day on Saturday, December 7. Temperatures soared to 36.2 degrees Celsius in Paya Lebar, surpassing the previous record of 35.9 degrees Celsius set on December 6, 2016.

The NEA attributed the heat to a period of minimal rainfall following a wet start to December.

These weather extremes highlight Singapore’s vulnerability to climate variability and underscore the importance of adaptive measures. The NEA continues to monitor weather patterns closely and urges the public to remain prepared for sudden changes.

The recent records reflect Singapore's ongoing struggle with the impacts of climate change, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and infrastructure to mitigate future risks.