Malaysia: Heavy rainfall forecast in most of West Malaysia and northern East Malaysia through at least Jan. 2 /update 1

Event

The Malaysian Meteorological Department has forecast heavy and continuous rain in most of West Malaysia and northern East Malaysia through at least Jan. 2. Authorities have issued red danger (highest level on a three-tier scale) continuous rain warnings for eastern Johor, most of Kelantan, eastern Pahang, and most of Terengganu states and orange severe (second-highest level on a three-tier scale) continuous rain warnings across northern Johor, the rest of Kelantan, northern and southwestern Pahang, and the rest of Terengganu states through Jan. 1. Yellow continuous rain alerts are also in place across the rest of the affected area through at least Jan. 2. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Much of central and northern West Malaysia is still recovering from the Dec. 18 flooding. As of Dec. 31, more than 6,000 people remain evacuated, mainly from Pahang State. Additional rainfall is likely to hamper recovery efforts and exacerbate the current condition. Floods and flash floods are possible over already saturated soil.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue additional mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services may occur where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the regions. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Severe weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Malaysian Meteorological Department
Malaysian Meteorological Department Twitter