Malaysia: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Peninsular Malaysia as of Nov. 29

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across much of Peninsular Malaysia as of Nov. 29 following heavy rainfall associated with the Northeast Monsoon. Authorities have confirmed three fatalities, two of which died from electrocution. Power companies shut off electricity at 17 substations to prevent further fatalities. Crews have evacuated more than 84,000 people. Authorities have established 488 temporary relief centers across the country. The worst affected states are Kelantan and Terengganu. River levels are at dangerous levels in several watercourses across the states, especially the Golok River. The national railway operator KTM Berhad canceled nine train routes on the east coast and shortened three others Nov. 29. Flooding also prompted the suspension of seven routes in Kelantan State Nov. 28.

The Malaysian Meteorological Service has forecasted further heavy rainfall across the affected area in the coming days. Red continuous heavy rain warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) are in place for northern Kelantan and Terengganu states, while orange warnings are in effect for the rest of Kelantan, eastern Pahang, and northern Perak states. Yellow continuous heavy rain warnings are active for the rest of northern, central, and southeastern Peninsula Malaysia. Further rainfall is likely through the rest of the northeast monsoon season until at least early April. Additional downpours could trigger further flooding due to high river levels and saturated ground, as well as hamper ongoing response and recovery operations.

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 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.

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.

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.