18 Dec 2021 | 09:02 AM UTC
Malaysia: Adverse weather forecast across central regions through at least Dec. 19
Heavy rainfall forecast across central Malaysia through at least Dec. 19. Flooding, transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Heavy rainfall is causing flooding and evacuations in parts of central and northern Malaysia as of Dec. 18. Authorities have evacuated at least 3,000 people from Klang, Kuala Langat, and Sepang districts in Selangor State. Reports indicate power outages are also occurring in Port Klang, along with severe flooding. Other affected states include Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu.
Authorities have issued the following warnings for further rainfall through at least Dec. 19.
Orange Alert: Gua Musang in Kelanatan State; Cameron Highlands, Lipis, Jerantut, Maran, and Kuantan in Pahang State.
Yellow Alert: Rest of affected area.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger 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 located 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 possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Transport
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.
Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts. 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.
Health
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.
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.
