KEDAH Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) deputy director Mohd Muaz Mohd Yusof said those visiting recreational areas throughout the northeast monsoon season must always be vigilant about any changes in water and weather conditions, as they could be signs of water surges.

“Immediately evacuate the area if there are changes in conditions,” he told a press conference in Alor Star today.

“Be alert of the rapid rise or if the water turns murky with stronger currents and there are dry leaves in it. Get your family, especially children, to a safe place right away.”

He said although the state APM had identified 39 hotspots, the same risk may occur in other areas in the event of heavy rainfall.

Meanwhile, Muaz said the APM had carried out a disaster management simulation exercise in preparations for the northeast monsoon, which is expected to begin this Saturday and last until March next year. – Bernama, November 9, 2023.