Malaysia: Heavy rainfall forecast to continue in multiple regions through at least Jan. 19 /update 4

Event

Heavy rains and thunderstorms continue to affect parts of Malaysia as of Jan. 19, killing at least four people and displacing over 20,000 others. The state agency Malaysian Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rains to continue in Sabah's northeastern and western regions, including Kota Belud and Tuaran districts, and northeastern Sarawak and Labuan through Jan. 19. Severe weather conditions have also led to inundation in parts of Kelantan and Pahang states, though floods are reportedly receding in the locations; affected areas include Jeli and Kuala Krai in Kelantan State and Kuantan, Maran, and Pekan in Pahang State. Disruptions will likely continue in the affected areas in the coming days as flooding subsides.

The recent flooding in Johor State has reportedly receded as of Jan. 19. Lingering disruptions are possible in the coming days as conditions improve.

Hazardous Conditions
Heavy rainfall has triggered flooding in parts of the country, 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 in parts of Kelantan, Pahang, Sabah, and Sarawak states, 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 Miri Airport (MYY) and Sandakan Airport (SDK), 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