Malaysia: Tropical Depression 29W tracking westwards across central West Malaysia early Dec. 17 after landfall south of Kerteh, Terengganu State

Event

Tropical Depression 29W is tracking westwards across central West Malaysia as of early Dec. 17 after landfall south of Kerteh, Terengganu State, approximately 07:00 Dec. 17. As of 11:00 MYT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 352 km (219 miles) north-northwest of Singapore. Forecast models indicate the storm will weaken as it continues on a westerly course across northern Pahang State and dissipates as a tropical depression over southern Perak State early Dec. 18. The storm's track and intensity forecast remain somewhat uncertain, and the system may change accordingly over the coming hours.

Government Advisories
Malaysian officials have issued a red danger (the highest level on a three-tier scale) continuous rain warning for southern Terengganu and northeastern Pahang states through Dec. 17. An orange severe continuous rain warning is in place for Kelantan, the rest of Terengganu, and northern and eastern Pahang states, while a yellow alert for continuous rain has been issued for Kedah, Perlis, Penang, Perak, and western and central Pahang states through Dec. 17.

Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming hours. Weather warnings could remain active even after the system's immediate threat has diminished, as some areas may still be highly susceptible to rain-induced hazards. The possibility of localized evacuations remains possible if weather conditions prove particularly hazardous.

Hazardous Conditions
The storm may bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to parts of northern and central West Malaysia over the coming hours. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near streams, creeks, rivers, and urban areas with inadequate stormwater drainage systems.

Sites located downstream of large reservoirs could experience flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Rain-induced landslides are possible in steeply sloped terrains. Flooding could isolate some communities for several days. Prolonged swells and storm surge generated by the system will likely result in coastal flooding. Persistent onshore flow could make it difficult for the surge to recede and for water levels to decrease in coastal river catchments.

Transport
Inclement weather associated with the storm could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions. Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Areal flooding in urban locations could also result in severe traffic congestion, while strong winds will pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Heavy rain and low visibility may trigger flight disruptions at regional airports. Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather conditions improve. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may exacerbate residual disruptions.

Health
Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. The threat of these disease outbreaks is usually elevated in low-income or underdeveloped areas of major urban centers due to the presence of incomplete or open sewer lines. The latent threat of waterborne contaminants from inundated industrial sites cannot be discounted; exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.

Advice

Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical weather conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.

Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Joint Typhoon Warning Center
Malaysian Meteorological Department (Malay)