THE Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) has issued a notice of preparedness for possible flash floods in Penang, Perak, Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Malacca, Johor, Terengganu, Sarawak and Sabah, as of 4pm today. 

In a statement, it said that based on rain forecast information provided by the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the Southeastern Asia-Oceania Flash Flood Guidance System and DID’s flood forecast model, there was a possibility of flash floods in several locations if heavy rain or a significant thunderstorm occurred within 24 hours of issuance of notice. 

In Perak, the areas that might be affected are Hilir Perak, Kerian, Larut, Matang, and Selama, while in Malacca it would be Central Malacca, Penang (Barat Daya, Seberang Perai Tengah, Seberang Perai Utara and Timur Laut), and for Selangor, Klang and Petaling would be at risk.  

In Johor, the areas affected would be Batu Pahat and Pontian, while in Negri Sembilan it would be Port Dickson and for Terengganu, Besut. Sarawak would see three areas at risk – Limbang, Bintulu and Kuching – and Besut in Sabah could face the same problem.  

DID said that the notice was issued to allow all residents, especially in high-risk areas, to be aware of any possibility of flash floods during the period.  

Meanwhile, MetMalaysia, in a statement today, predicted wind concentration in the coastal areas of Kelantan and Terengganu tomorrow, with the potential for thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds. 

The wind concentration is also expected to occur in the Straits of Malacca for four days starting Monday (November 21), which has the potential to cause squall line incidents. 

“This situation has the potential to bring thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds in the west coast states in the peninsula, especially in the morning,” it said. 

MetMalaysia also advised the public always to refer to the department’s website at www.met.gov.my and social media accounts and to download the myCuaca app for the latest weather information. – Bernama , November 18, 2022.