Malaysians Warned To Expect Heavy Rain And Thunderstorms Until Early November
Residents in low-lying areas have been warned to be cautious and prepare for flash floods.
By May Vin Ang — 21 Oct 2019, 05:15 PM
Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas have been warned to be cautious and prepare for flash floods, as Malaysia goes through the monsoon transition phase
"According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) weather forecast, the country is experiencing the monsoon transition period until early next month," said The Ministry of Water, Land, and Natural Resources in a statement yesterday, 20 October.
The transition from the southwest to the northeast monsoon season will bring heavy rainfall and put the coastal areas at risk, especially if it coincides with the high tide, said the Ministry as quoted by Malay Mail.
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds within a short period of time will occur frequently, especially in the late evenings
"The west coast of the peninsular and parts of Sabah and Sarawak will be exposed to the same situation," the Ministry said.
According to The Star, the Ministry also urged local state authorities to conduct regular checks on local drainage systems and other waterways, including rivers and ditches to ensure the water is free from blockage.
So far, flash floods have been reported in Perak, Selangor, and Kuala Lumpur of late
According to New Straits Times, heavy downpours on Saturday morning, 19 October, affected three districts in Perak, namely Hilir Perak, Larut Matang, and Batang Padang, displacing 278 people to community halls for temporary shelter.
Meanwhile, according to The Star, heavy rains led to flash floods, landslides, and fallen trees across Kuala Lumpur last Monday, 14 October.
The Fire and Rescue Department said that Segambut was under a foot of water and among the places most affected.
Rainfall and river water levels can be monitored at the Department of Irrigation and Drainage's website.
