Deluge Diverts 18 Flights from Singapore's Airports Amid Monsoon Surge

SINGAPORE – In a tumultuous turn of events since the evening of January 10, a total of 18 flights en route to Singapore's Changi and Seletar airports have been forced to change their landing destinations due to severe weather conditions. Heavy rainfall associated with the ongoing monsoon season has wreaked havoc on travel plans, leading to unprecedented disruptions.

According to the Changi Airport Group (CAG), which manages both airports, 12 flights intended for Changi Airport and six designated for Seletar Airport were redirected to alternative airfields for safety reasons. As flight schedules continue to be impacted, inquiries have been made to CAG regarding specifics on the flights diverted and their new destinations.

The impact of the monsoon surge has been significant, with Singapore experiencing a staggering 255.2mm of rainfall between January 10 and 11. This figures not only exceeds the monthly average rainfall for January of 222.4mm but also marks one of the highest recorded totals in recent memory, according to the national water agency, PUB.

A monsoon surge typically occurs when wind speeds dramatically increase, driving colder air southward across the South China Sea, leading to heavy rains and severe weather conditions.

Further compounding travel disruptions, more than 50 flights operated by Singapore Airlines faced delays or necessary adjustments during this tumultuous period. Amid warnings issued by PUB for January 10 to January 13, concerns arose that the intense downpours could overwhelm the city's drainage systems, resulting in sudden localized flooding in various areas.

Weather conditions also dipped dramatically, with temperatures plunging to 21.6 degrees Celsius in Newton on the morning of January 11, closely approaching the record low of 21.4 degrees Celsius set earlier this year.

In summary, as Singapore grapples with the effects of extreme weather, travelers are urged to stay informed about their flight statuses and prepare for potential delays as the region continues to experience unpredictable rainfalls and related disruptions.