Continuous rain in western Sarawak until Jan 4 forecasted

KUCHING: Sarawakians, especially those residing in the flood-prone location in the west side of the state are reminded to be prepared as continuous rain is expected to persist until Jan 4.

Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) director-general Muhammad Helmi Abdullah said the weather situation is based on the weather model analysis which expects wind concentration to occur in the southern part of the peninsula and western areas of Sarawak starting Dec 30.

“This condition may result in increased humidity that could potentially bring rain to these areas. Meanwhile, in other states, thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds are likely to occur from the afternoon until night,” he said in a statement on Friday.

Hence, he urged the public to continually refer to the METMalaysia’s website at www.met.gov.my and its official social media channels as well as download the myCuaca application for the most current and accurate information on the weather updates.

The country is currently in the Northeast Monsoon season which is expected to continue until March next year.

It brings heavy rain especially to the states on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, west of Sarawak and east of Sabah.

Last month, it was previously reported that Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said a total of 154 flood-prone areas across Sarawak had been identified.

“Throughout this monsoon period, we anticipate six episodes of heavy rain. Besides floods and strong winds, high tides, rough seas, and strong waves are expected in the South China Sea, posing risks to seafaring vessels,” he said.

Uggah, who is also the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman said the state has a manpower strength of 5,501 personnel, 487 land assets, 249 sea and river assets, 12 air assets, and 207 support assets. Additionally, 70 fibre boats have been distributed across divisions for potential evacuation needs.

Additionally, the Social Welfare Department has stocked sufficient aid, and the Civil Defence Force will prepare 4,000 food kits for supplementary assistance.

Temporary relief centres (PPS) are ready, with a total of 627 PPS, which can accommodate up to 162,091 evacuees, prepared for activation when needed.