Between January and August 2026, lightning strikes were responsible for igniting 42 building fires across Malaysia, according to the Fire and Rescue Department. Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad, the department’s director-general, reported that the highest number of these fires occurred in April, with 13 cases recorded. This figure is roughly 2.5 times higher than the monthly average of 5.3 incidents over the eight-month period.

Other months with notable numbers of lightning-related fires include July with six cases, February, May, June, and August each registering five incidents, and March with three. No such fires were reported in January during this timeframe. The spike in April coincides with Malaysia’s intermonsoon period, which takes place between March and May. This season is characterized by increased thunderstorm activity and is one of two intermonsoon periods the country experiences annually, the second occurring between September and October.

Lightning-related emergencies frequently involve structural fires affecting residential and commercial buildings, as well as industrial facilities and electrical substations. Nor Hisham explained that lightning can generate powerful electrical surges that damage roofs, structural components, and electrical systems, potentially leading to fires that require immediate firefighting and stabilization efforts to prevent the blaze from spreading.

In addition to structural fires, the Fire and Rescue Department also contends with open burning and forest fires intensified by the weather conditions during the intermonsoon period. The department’s Emergency Medical Rescue Services and special tactical units respond to a range of incidents involving injuries due to lightning strikes or secondary hazards such as fallen trees and debris, often requiring evacuation or rescue operations.

The department stresses the importance of public safety measures during lightning storms. Nor Hisham advised individuals to seek immediate shelter inside sturdy buildings or enclosed vehicles and to avoid being outdoors near tall trees, utility poles, metal structures, and bodies of water, all of which can conduct electricity. Property owners are encouraged to install lightning arresters and surge protection systems to safely ground electrical discharges and reduce the risk of damage or fire.