PENANG has opened its state disaster command centre to prepare for the La Nina phenomenon predicted to start from now until March next year.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said he has ordered the command centre to be reactivated with specific focus given to 53 hotspot locations throughout the state.
Hotspots are defined as areas which have experienced flooding at least three times in the past three years.
As the state dealt with a rainy Deepavali celebrations, Chow told a press conference that the state is facing a northeast monsoon transitional weather pattern, coupled with La Nina, which can drive rainfall and storms together with rough seas.
During this period, Penang can record an average of 60mm and 430mm rainfall between now and March, next year.
"Over the same period, rainy days can be between eight and 21 days a month," Chow said.
Among the steps to be taken are cleaning waterways of debris and to unclog major drainage.
The hydrology equipment including pump houses must be in good working order with a rapid response team deployed by the local authorities including the Department of Drainage and Irrigation.
"The main aspect is to prevent any clogging in our drainage system. That will help us weather the steep rainfall."
The command centre will also ready the logistics and conduct surveillance of sensitive terrain.
Penang will also be on alert to activate any of the 380 relief centres if floods emerge.
The state has allocated RM2 million to mitigate natural disasters including floods, especially with the advent of climate change.
Earlier, Chow announced that the third edition of the Chief Minister's Badminton Trophy will be held on November 1 and 2 at the Chinese Recreational Club (CRC).
A total of 14 teams with 160 players would take part. - October 21, 2025.
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