Malaysia: Flooding affecting multiple states as of Jan. 5 /update 1

Event

Heavy rains and thunderstorms are affecting parts of Peninsular Malaysia as of Jan. 5. The conditions have led to flooding in parts of Johor, Kelantan, Pahang, Perak, Selangor, and Terengganu states, displacing around 20,000 people. Reports indicate up to three fatalities, while at least three others are missing. The flooding has blocked major roads, including those connecting Kuantan in Pahang State and Batu Pahat, Kluang, and Mersing in Johor State. Additional flooding is possible; the state agency Malaysian Meteorological Department forecasts rains to continue through at least Jan. 5. Lingering disruptions may continue in the coming days as the flooding subsides.

Hazardous Conditions
Heavy rainfall has triggered flooding in various parts of Johor, Kelantan, Pahang, Perak, Selangor, and Terengganu states, especially the low-lying and coastal areas. 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 cannot be discounted in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue additional mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services may occur where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes impacted by floodwaters. Additionally, officials may close roads, harbors, and airports, like Kuala Terengganu's Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) and Kuantan's Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport (KUA), if the severe weather persists.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Health
Flooding may 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
Malaysian Meteorological Department Twitter