Malaysia: Tropical Storm Kai-Tak forecast to hit December 22

Event

Tropical Strom Kai-Tak is forecast to make landfall in Malaysia on Friday, December 22. As of 02:00 (local time) on Wednesday, December 20,  the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Department) believes the storm will cause strong winds between 40-50 km/h (25-31 mph) and waves of up to 3.5 meters (11 ft) in coastal areas off Sarawak, Sabah, and the Labuan Federal Territory. Heavy rain is also forecast for Sarawak and Sabah. However, officials believe it is too early to forecast where specifically the storm will make landfall in peninsular Malaysia. Authorities are urging people to monitor storm updates on the MET Department website or through the official app myCuaca.

Context

Typhoons and tropical storms regularly cause seasonal flooding in Malaysia during the monsoon season (typically October through March). Flooding regularly results in mass evacuations and school closures.

Advice

Individuals present in the Malaysia are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation order is given.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.