Malaysia Braces for Worst Floods in a Decade: 3 Dead, 80,000 Evacuated
The Malaysian government reported on Friday that three people have died, and more than 80,000 have been evacuated as severe floods swept through multiple states. Authorities warned that the monsoon season could bring the worst flooding the country has experienced in ten years.
Flooding is common on the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia during the monsoon season, which spans from October to March. However, this week’s heavy rainfall triggered widespread evacuations, with the northeastern state of Kelantan, bordering Thailand, being the hardest hit.
According to the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), as of Friday morning, 80,589 people had been relocated to 467 temporary shelters across seven states. Kelantan and Terengganu were the most affected. NADMA did not provide further details on the fatalities.
Deputy Prime Minister and head of NADMA, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, cautioned that the floods could surpass the devastating 2014 floods, which displaced over a quarter of a million people.
To bolster relief efforts, the government has deployed over 82,000 security personnel, along with rescue boats, vehicles, and helicopters, Ahmad Zahid added.
As monsoon rains continue, officials urge residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and heed evacuation orders to avoid further casualties.
