17 May 2020 | 04:44 PM UTC
Malaysia: Heavy downpours cause flash flooding in Penang state May 17
Flash floods caused by heavy downpours affect several areas of Penang state on May 17; further inclement weather and associated disruptions possible over the near term
Event
Several areas across Penang state were affected by flash floods on Sunday morning (local time), May 17, after heavy downpours. On Penang Island over 80 houses were flooded in Taman Nelayan Kuala Sungai Pinang, Kampung Sungai Rusa, Taman Manggis, Bukit Kechil, Kampung Air Putih, and Sungai Pinang. Floodwaters reached up to 0.6 m (2 ft) and a woman had to be rescued after being trapped in her home in Taman Manggis Indah in Balik Pulau.
In southern Seberang Prai, flash floods hit Taman Lima Kongsi, Kampung Sungai Baong, Jalan Presekutuan Valdor, Kampung Valdor, and Kampung Masjid Baru. Roads were flooded in Jalan Tembikai and Jalan Kebun Sireh in central Seberang Prai.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department has forecast isolated showers for Penang through Saturday, May 23, indicating that further flooding and associated disruptions are possible in the near term.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
