Pulau Tekong records highest rainfall as Changi diverts multiple flights.
Singapore faced one of its most intense monsoon surges from Jan 10 to Jan 13, 2025, as heavy rains and thunderstorms swept across the island. Described by the Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) as a rare and prolonged weather event, the surge brought record-breaking rainfall, disrupted flights at Changi Airport, and caused localized flooding.
The recent monsoon surge was characterized by prolonged rainfall and strong winds, disrupting daily life in Singapore. Such surges occur when winds over the South China Sea intensify, forming extensive rainclouds that lead to heavy showers and thunderstorms. This event marked one of the longest and most intense monsoons in recent years.
Record Rainfall Across Singapore
Pulau Tekong witnessed a record-breaking 241.8mm of rainfall on Jan 10, surpassing the previous high of 238.2mm set in 2011. Islandwide, the daily average rainfall during the four-day monsoon ranged between 44.4mm and 120.2mm, with Jan 10 recording the highest average at 120.2mm. At Changi, 255.2mm of rain fell between Friday and Saturday, exceeding Singapore’s January monthly average of 222.4mm, according to national water agency PUB.
Impact on Changi Airport Operations
The prolonged rain disrupted operations at Changi Airport, with 12 flights diverted to other locations. Flights originating from Bangkok, Jakarta, Phuket, and Shanghai were among those affected. Singapore Airlines reported significant delays, with over 50 flights rescheduled on Jan 10 and 11 due to adverse weather conditions. The disruptions highlighted the challenges faced by one of the world’s busiest airports during extreme weather events.
Temperature Fluctuations During the Surge
Temperatures during the monsoon surge fluctuated significantly, with daily minimums dropping to as low as 21.6°C at Newton on Jan 11. Daily maximum temperatures remained cooler than usual, ranging between 25°C and 29°C. Despite the cooling effect, the prolonged rain disrupted outdoor activities and normal routines across the island.
Historical Rainfall Comparison
Friday’s islandwide average rainfall of 120.2mm was the third-highest recorded in recent years. Previous records included 154.2mm on Feb 28, 2023, and 135.6mm on Jan 2, 2021. MSS noted that Singapore typically experiences two to four monsoon surges annually, with each event lasting up to five days, making this surge unusually intense and prolonged.
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Flooding and Localized Disruptions
Flooding was reported along Jalan Seaview on Jan 10, as heavy rainfall coincided with high tide, exacerbating waterlogging in the area. MSS confirmed that the northern and eastern parts of Singapore, including Pulau Tekong and Changi, experienced the heaviest rainfall. These incidents serve as reminders of the importance of Singapore’s drainage infrastructure in managing such weather challenges.
This monsoon surge highlighted the intensity of Singapore’s evolving weather patterns, bringing record rainfall and operational challenges at Changi Airport. While disruptions were managed effectively, the event underscores the need for climate resilience and infrastructure planning in the face of increasingly extreme weather events. For Singaporeans and visitors, the surge serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation during the monsoon season.
Keywords: Intense Monsoon Singapore, Severe Weather 2025, Recent Years Storm
