Malaysia: Disruptions due to flooding and landslides ongoing across western regions as of March 17

Event

Response operations are ongoing in parts of western West Malaysia as of March 17 after heavy rainfall triggered flooding and landslides. Further isolated thunderstorms and heavy downpours are forecast across the region through at least March 17. Additional heavy showers could exacerbate the situation in areas where the ground is already saturated from previous rainfall and will likely hamper recovery efforts.

Continuous heavy rain since May 16 has resulted in flash flooding across Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, and Selangor states as well as Kuala Lumpur. Authorities have opened relief centers in Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, and Selangor states. At least 99 people across the affected area have been evacuated. Flooding has impacted around 300 houses in Kampung Cina and Kuala Kedah in Kedah State. Floodwaters have begun to recede and all roads are passable in the state. Around 10 houses in Kampung Sungai Mahang, Negeri Sembilan State have also been affected by the floods.

Hazardous Conditions
Further 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 likely 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. 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.

Resources

Malaysian Meteorological Department (Malay)
JKR Disaster Management Official Website (eBENCANA) (Malay)