As a third monsoon surge hits Singapore within the same quarter of 2025, our tropical island is now experiencing heavy rainfall and ‘air-con weather’ in the low 20-degrees range. Some might welcome this change from the usual scorching heat, while others might find our rain-soaked streets a dreary scene, but whichever it is, it’s safe to say that we all wish to stay dry and not be the sorry victims of flash floods and other weather-related inconveniences. To tide you through this monsoon season, here are some handy survival tips including how to check for live flood updates.
Subscribe to the PUB Flood Alerts Telegram channel
It’s hard for us noobs to accurately predict where flash floods will occur, but Singapore’s Public Utilities Board (PUB) is always one step ahead. Join the @pubfloodalerts Telegram group to receive live alerts on which areas in Singapore are experiencing heavy downpours and are at risk of flash floods, estimated timings included, so you'll know where to avoid. You might even get more timely updates from this chatbot than from that dude you’re in a toxic situationship with.
Download the free myENV app by NEA
To be doubly prepared, you can also download the myENV app by the National Environment Agency (NEA) to get alerts on drain water levels, flooding, and lightning. But this free app isn’t only useful in rainy weather – it also provides information on all sorts of environmental conditions, including haze, heat stress, dengue clusters in your neighbourhood and more.
Plan your outings around indoor attractions
Shelve those hiking plans for now if you don’t want any rain on your parade. Now’s the best time to unwind with some indoor activities – and we’re not talking about bedrotting at home all day. From a Japanese-style onsen to a fully sheltered Mario Kart-inspired go-kart facility and charming teahouses as well as chill listening bars, there are plenty of places in Singapore where you can have a fulfilling day out, without actually being outside. Browse through our compilation of indoor activities in Singapore for more ideas; We have over 30 of them waiting to be checked off your list.
Get a cheap emergency umbrella from Daiso or convenience stores
Common sense would tell you to have an umbrella on you at all times during this period, but if you somehow find yourself without one, you can always get an emergency brolly from Daiso. The Japanese discount store’s lightweight foldable umbrellas cost around $6, while the basic clear plastic ones start from just $2.18. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Cheers are also a great place to pick up an umbrella. The ones there may not be as affordable as Daiso’s, but at least their outlets are numerous and easy to locate in desperate times.
Trade sandals for waterproof shoes
Wearing slippers and sandals out to town in Singapore – sloppy or perfectly acceptable? The debate on this will never end, but for practical reasons, you’d best up your fashion game with more reliable footwear during this period, lest you want to plod around with wet feet. Canvas shoes will get soaked and dirty, so opt for waterproof ones instead.
Short of donning actual galoshes – which would be a pretty comical sight in Singapore – try getting a pair of high-cut boots in pleather. We’re loving the Lyon Combat Boots from local family-run label DMK for their lightweight nature and how they keep our feet nice and dry even in crazy rain conditions. To further convince you: at least two members of our team have this very pair of boots, so we can personally vouch for it.
Stay safe away from water activities and water bodies
If you’re going to get wet either way, you might as well be in the water, right? Wrong. Our seas and rivers will be choppy, which automatically makes water conditions more dangerous. Plus, there might be lightning, and you don’t want to get struck. While swimming pools and water sports facilities have their own safety rules around this, one should still remain responsible in other less regulated situations; Err on the side of caution and avoid swimming in the open sea, fishing, or taking your personal water sports equipment out for a spin.
Avoid road trips to Johor Bahru as there will be Causeway jams
Our Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has spoken: Singaporeans are strongly advised to reschedule any JB road trips in light of the monsoon surge. In a recent announcement, ICA reports that “both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints have been experiencing very heavy arrival and departure traffic” – both as a result of the March holidays and the stormy weather. In fact, there have been jams lasting more than two hours as well as an increase in traffic accidents between the borders over the past couple of days.
To avoid putting yourself in such a predicament, spend your weekend in Singapore enjoying free outing ideas or getting good bang for your buck with over 20 SG60 deals and discounts for various local attractions.
Consider taking the MRT instead of driving around Singapore
Typically, travelling around by car would be the superior option for those who are fortunate enough to be able to afford it. But with slippery roads that might even be subject to flooding, the safer option would be to take public transport. While there would inadvertently be some train delays along the way, you’re much less likely to be involved in a road accident while riding the MRT than zooming along in your car, a private hire ride, or on a motorbike – especially since visibility will be compromised.
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