Kuching soaked overnight: Wet weather predicted to persist until Jan 19

Slow moving traffic along Jalan Kwong Lee Bank in the morning of Jan 18, 2024 due to flash flood. Photo credit: APM Kuching Facebook

KUCHING, Jan 18: Many parts of Kuching are drenched by intense rainfall since last night, triggering flash floodings in several areas like Desa Wira in Batu Kawah and Jalan Kwong Lee Bank this morning.

The Civil Defence Force (APM) Kuching, after monitoring flood-prone areas, reported that roads to most places, including Tabuan Dayak, Tanah Putih Clinic, Padang Merdeka, Kampung Sikok Padawan, Sarawak General Hospital, and Kampung Sinar Budi Baru, remain accessible.

In specific locations like Jalan Tabuan Dayak and Desa Wira, rivers and monsoon drains are nearly reaching full capacity due to continuous heavy rainfall from last night until this afternoon.

Flash flood reported at Lorong Desa Wira in Batu Kawah at 10.18am on Jan 18, 2924 following heavy rainfall overnight. Photo credit: APM Kuching Facebook

The river passing through Jalan Tabuan Dayak nearly reaching capacity as at 7.16 am of Jan 18, 2024 following heavy rainfall overnight. Photo credit: APM Kuching Facebook

Meanwhile, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a continuous rainfall alert for eight districts in Sarawak until tomorrow (Jan 19).

MetMalaysia, in an advisory issued at 12.25pm today, said the affected districts are Kuching, Serian, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong, Sarikei, Sibu and Mukah.

An alert is issued when there are indications of moderate or expected rain or thunderstorms lasting over six hours within the specified period in a particular area.

Today’s (Jan 18) weather forecast indicates that isolated thunderstorms are expected over inland areas in the afternoon, with isolated rain anticipated over inland areas at night.

The public is strongly urged to stay informed by checking MetMalaysia’s official website www.met.gov.my, following its official METMalaysia social media platforms, and downloading the MyCuaca app for the latest and authentic weather information. — DayakDaily