Dark clouds loomed ominously over Singapore's skyline at around 3pm yesterday, signalling the arrival of thundery showers across the island, and what is expected to be a wet second half of the month.

More rain may help keep hazy skies at bay and ease the critically low water level in Johor's Linggiu Reservoir, which helps to meet half of Singapore's water needs.

The weatherman said in its fortnightly forecast on Monday that the Republic is likely to experience short- duration thundery showers in the late morning and afternoon on six to eight days over these two weeks.

In addition, thundery showers with gusty winds can be expected in the morning on one or two days, added the Meteorological Service Singapore.

After the hottest April in Singapore since 1929, the rain could bring some sweet respite.

The remainder of this month is expected to be slightly cooler. The daily maximum temperatures are likely to range between 33 deg C and 34 deg C on most days, potentially reaching a high of 35 deg C on a few days.

About two-thirds of Singapore received above average rainfall in the first fortnight of the month.

But storms bring their own set of hazards. Last week, a 20m-tall tree toppled during a thunderstorm, crashing into a pedestrian overhead bridge near Bishan Street 12.

The National Environment Agency has warned that flash floods could occur if prolonged heavy rain coincides with high tide.

Samantha Boh