Floods: Be prepared to evacuate, Sibu folk in low-lying areas told

SIBU: Residents staying in low-lying areas have been told to get ready for evacuation if the flood situation worsens.

Several areas were inundated by floodwaters following a three-hour downpour on Thursday (Jan 11) evening.

Fire and Rescue Department Sibu chief Andy Alie issued a red alert to residents on Friday (Jan 12).

"With frequent heavy rainfall and recent flooding incidents in various areas, I urge residents, especially those in high-risk zones, to get ready for relocation when instructed by the authorities.

"For those residing along riverbanks, please refrain from going to rivers and canals for fishing, as we are concerned about potential unforeseen incidents," he said.

He stressed that those who might have to be evacuated to the nearest temporary evacuation centre (PPS) should bring only essential items, documents, and medications.

Andy said that pre-flood measures were in place including staying informed about flood warnings through social media, radio, or newspapers.

He also urged affected residents to switch off all electrical sources when relocating and avoid touching fallen electrical wires in flood-affected areas.

The department, he said, are monitoring various flood prone locations, including Sungai Merah Market, Kampung Bahagia Jaya, Jalan Ding Lik Kwong, Jalan Ling Kai Cheng, Jalan Ulu Sungai Merah, Jalan Khoo Peng Loong Road, Simpang 3 Ferry Terminal, Jalan Tiong Hua, Jalan Lanang, Jalan Sentosa, and Jalan Kampung Datu.

Meanwhile Sibu Divisional Resident Datuk Wong Hee Sieng said his office had on standby a total of 46 PPS. This includes 24 PPS in Sibu, 16 in Kanowit and six in Selangau.