PETALING JAYA: The Meteorological Department has dismissed claims on social media that Malaysia will be experiencing the Equinox phenomenon this week.

A viral message has been circulating via WhatsApp claiming that a two-week Equinox phenomena will hit Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia starting April 13.

The message advised people to keep cool and drink lots of water as temperatures are expected to soar to 40 degrees Celsius.

However, a check with the Meteorological Department revealed that the message is false.

The Equinox phenomenon is an astronomical phenomenon which takes place twice a year on March 20 and Sept 23 when the sun crosses the equator.

During the period, the sun is positioned on top of the head in the equatorial region and nearby areas, and a slight temperature rise occurs if there is no cloud cover.

The public had been urged to get accurate information from the department’s website at www.met.gov.my, myCuaca mobile application, Facebook:malaysiamet, Twitter @malaysianment or MetMalaysia and by contacting MetMalaysia hotline at 1300221638.-thestar