Malaysia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Johor State as of late March 1

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across much of Johor State as of March 1 following heavy rainfall associated with the Northeast Monsoon. As of late March 1, authorities have reported that more than 9,000 people have been evacuated to 90 temporary relief centers across nine of the state's ten districts. River levels are at dangerous levels in several watercourses across the state. Numerous roads across Johor have been closed due to flooding and landslides.

The Malaysian Meteorological Service has forecast further heavy rainfall over much of the state in the coming days. Red continuous rain warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) have been issued across Johor through at least March 2 and further isolated showers and thunderstorms are forecast through at least March 7. Additional downpours could trigger further flooding due to high river levels and saturated ground, as well as hamper ongoing response and recovery operations.

Hazardous Conditions
Further rainfall could trigger additional 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.

Resources

Malaysian Meteorological Department
JKR Disaster Management Official Website (eBENCANA)