KOTA BARU (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - A third wave of rain, known as the "cold surge", is expected to hit the east coast, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department.

"It is coming from mainland China and will hit our east coast sometime tonight (Thursday) or tomorrow morning.

"It will, however, not be as bad as the previous waves which led to intense flooding," said senior meteorological officer Dr Mohd Hisham Anip.

He said the weather was expected to be wet and gloomy until Saturday.

"The rainfall will not be as heavy but it will certainly be cloudy and windy.

"As soon as the surge passes, we are expecting fine weather," he said.

Dr Mohd Hisham said the western regions of Sarawak and coastal areas of Sabah would also experience some rain.

"If there are any drastic weather changes, we will issue a warning or a statement," he added.

According to the department's website, east coast states such as Terengganu, Pahang and Kelantan will have a rainy week.

The website warned that Pahang, east Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan to expect strong winds (40-50kph) and rough waves up to 3.5m on Thursday.

All shipping and costal activities should be avoided during this period.