KUALA LUMPUR – The Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) has issued a notice of preparedness for possible flash floods in Penang, Perak, Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, Terengganu, Sarawak, and Sabah as of 4pm today.
In a statement, it said that based on rain forecast information provided by the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the Southeastern Asia-Oceania Flash Flood Guidance System, and DID’s flood forecast model, there is a possibility of flash floods in several locations if heavy rain or a significant thunderstorm occur within 24 hours after the notice was issued.
In Perak, the areas that may be affected are Hilir Perak, Kerian, Larut, Matang, and Selama; Melaka Tengah in Melaka; Barat Daya, Seberang Prai Tengah, Seberang Prai Utara, and Timur Laut in Penang; as well as Klang and Petaling in Selangor.
In Johor, the areas are Batu Pahat and Pontian; Port Dickson in Negeri Sembilan; Besut in Terengganu; Limbang, Bintulu, and Kuching in Sarawak; and Beaufort in Sabah.
DID said that the notice was issued to allow all residents, especially in high-risk areas, to be aware of the possibility of flash floods during the period.
Meanwhile, MetMalaysia predicted in a statement today wind concentration in the coastal areas of Kelantan and Terengganu tomorrow, with potential for thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds.
Wind concentration is also expected to occur in the Straits of Melaka for four days starting Monday, which has the potential to cause squall line incidents.
“This situation has the potential to bring thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds in the west coast states of the peninsula, especially in the morning,” it said.
MetMalaysia also advised the public to always refer to the department’s website at www.met.gov.my and social media accounts, and to download the myCuaca app for the latest weather information. – Bernama, November 18, 2022
