THE five families forced out of their houses by the flood in Kampung Jeriah, Sibu, Sarawak, yesterday will have to spend another night in the village hall as it is not safe for them to return home.

Of the 44 evacuees, two will be admitted to Sibu hospital, according to the Civil Defence Department.

However, it did not name the duo or their ailment.

There are two senior citizens and 17 children among the flood victims.

The Kampung Jeriah folk are the first to be forced out of their houses in the state in the monsoon season this year.

Sarawak is experiencing its third day of continuous rain and authorities are receiving more reports of rising waters, with some areas and main roads already in ankle-deep waters.

However, the Fire and Rescue Department said the situation is under control, adding that it has despatched personnel to Lundu and Sematan, and the main road linking the two coastal towns. – January 13, 2022.