Malaysia: Heavy rainfall forecast in most of West Malaysia through at least Feb. 26

Event

The Malaysian Meteorological Department has forecast heavy and continuous rain in most of West Malaysia through at least Feb. 26. Authorities have issued red danger (the highest level on a three-tier scale) continuous rain warnings for Kelantan, eastern Pahang, and Terengganu states and orange severe (second-highest level on a three-tier scale) continuous rain warnings across much of the rest of Pahang State through Feb. 26. Yellow continuous rain alerts are also in place across the rest of the affected area over the same period. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Flooding has been reported in Tanah Merah and Kuala Krai districts in Kelantan State; several low-lying areas, including Kampung Chenulang, reported floodwaters of up to 0.5 meters (1.6 feet). The Golok River in Kampung Jenob, Tanah Merah District and the Kelantan River in Kampung Tualang and Kuala Nal in Kuala Krai District are in danger of flooding. Authorities have not yet issued evacuation orders in the districts but have warned that flooding in likely in Kampung Kajang, Kampung Padang Kijang, Kampung Kemubu, and Kampung Tualang by late Feb. 25.

Several villages in Kemaman District, Terengganu State are also flooded, including Kampung Teladas, Kampung Air Putih, Kampung Dadong, Kampung Padang Kubu, Kampung Tebak and Kampung Batu 16, and Seberang Jabor.

As of Feb. 25, more than 700 people in Terengganu, 92 people in Pahang, and 15 people in Kelantan states are displaced.

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 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.

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
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the regions. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and 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. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Severe weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

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.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Malaysian Meteorological Department
Malaysian Meteorological Department Twitter