Malaysia: Flooding, evacuations ongoing across Kelantan and Terengganu states as of March 4 /update 1

Event

Flooding and evacuations are ongoing across Kelantan and Terengganu states in West Malaysia as of March 4. More than 1,900 people in Terengganu, mostly in Dungun and Hulu Terengganu districts, and around 4,300 people in Kelantan, mostly from Pasir Mas and Tumpat districts, remain evacuated. Reports indicate at least two fatalities took place in Kelantan State, including one in Kampung Kuala Gris near Dabong and another in Kampung Talang near Kadok, due to flooding Feb. 27.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department has rescinded all heavy rain warnings, but rainfall is forecast to continue across the affected area over the coming days. The Air Bol River in Jeli District, Kelantan State, remains above the alert level. Additional rainfall may lead to flood or flash flooding over already saturated soil and may hamper rescue and relief efforts.

Hazardous Conditions
Further rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Transport
Multiple federal and state roads are closed across the affected area due to flooding. At least 14 federal roads and 22 state roads are impassable due to flooding, landslides, and damage. Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.

Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Advice

Seek updated information on weather and related disruptions, including road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices if prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

Malaysian Meteorological Department (Malay)
JKR Disaster Management Official Website (eBENCANA) (Malay)