25 Apr 2022 | 11:54 AM UTC
Malaysia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in central Kuala Lumpur April 25
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, April 25. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Flooding is causing ongoing disruptions in central Kuala Lumpur April 25. Heavy rainfall began at around 15:00 MYT and the downpours have inundated several key roads in the capital, including Jalan Parlimen, Jalan Segambut, Jalan Kuching, and Jalan Ampang. The flooded roads are causing heavy traffic congestion across the city and authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution. The Malaysian Meteorological Department has issued a thunderstorm warning for the capital, as well as other parts of the country, through at least 20:00 April 25. Further isolated rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast in Kuala Lumpur through at least April 27.
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
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.
