More than 60,000 people have been forced to evacuate their homes after severe flooding swept through several states in northern and eastern Malaysia. As of 8 p.m. on Thursday, a total of 60,099 individuals were reported displaced.
The worst-hit area is Kelantan state, where 49,048 people are sheltering in 207 flood relief centers, according to the country’s social welfare department. The relentless downpour has submerged villages, swamped roads, and cut off access to essential services.
Other affected states include Terengganu, Kedah, Perlis, and Perak, where thousands more have been evacuated. Local authorities are working tirelessly to provide aid and support to those impacted, but the scale of the disaster poses significant challenges.
The Malaysian meteorological department had previously warned of heavy rains continuing until the end of November. The monsoon season brings annual floods to the region, but this year’s deluge has been particularly severe, exacerbated by changing weather patterns.
Residents recount harrowing experiences as waters rose rapidly, leaving little time to save belongings. “We barely escaped with our lives,” said Ahmad, a resident of Kelantan. “The water came so fast; we had to leave everything behind.”
Emergency services are on high alert, with rescue operations underway to reach stranded individuals. The government has urged people in affected areas to remain vigilant and to heed evacuation orders promptly.
The flooding raises concerns about the impact of climate change on weather extremes in Southeast Asia. As Malaysia grapples with the immediate crisis, there is a growing call for long-term solutions to mitigate future disasters.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
