Recent heavy rains have led to widespread flooding in Malaysia, forcing over 120,000 people to evacuate their homes.
Massive Flooding in Malaysia Displaces Over 120,000 Residents
Massive Flooding in Malaysia Displaces Over 120,000 Residents
Severe weather conditions have led to significant flooding in Malaysia, impacting lives and prompting emergency responses.
The catastrophic flooding in Malaysia has prompted an emergency response, with more than 122,000 individuals displaced after continuous heavy rain pounded the country, leading to severe flooding, particularly in the north-eastern state of Kelantan. Tragically, three lives have already been lost, and authorities are bracing for the possibility of more casualties as ominous storm warnings remain in effect.
Emergency services are working tirelessly to rescue stranded residents, while numerous shelters have been established for evacuees. Eyewitness footage reveals vehicles and residences submerged under water, with individuals navigating through waist-high floodwaters. The present crisis has already surpassed the numbers recorded during the devastating floods of 2014, signaling a severe humanitarian challenge.
As reported by the National Disaster Management Agency, around 63% of the displaced population is from Kelantan. Significant efforts are underway to provide aid and resources, with 679 emergency shelters currently in operation to accommodate the displaced families. Other regions feeling the brunt of the floods include Terengganu, Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Selangor, Johor, Melaka, and Perak.
In a show of solidarity, Malaysia’s Prime Minister has instructed cabinet members to forgo holidays to concentrate on disaster management. Meanwhile, neighboring Thailand has also issued disaster declarations for six provinces, affecting over 240,000 homes, prompting military deployment to assist with rescue operations.
The monsoon season in Malaysia kicks off in November, and while flooding events are frequent, last year's disaster is still fresh in the nation's memory, which claimed at least 14 lives. As communities battle the rising waters together, the nation faces a critical period in ensuring the safety and security of its residents.
