ALOR SETAR: The Kedah Civil Defence Force has urged residents in flood-prone areas of Kota Setar district to prepare for immediate evacuation as waters from neighbouring districts begin flowing into the region.
Kedah Civil Defence Force director Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Bukhori Mat Sidik stated that agency monitoring confirms water has started entering Kota Setar with several areas already experiencing inundation.
He confirmed that Civil Defence personnel and other enforcement agencies are closely monitoring river levels throughout Kota Setar district.
Mohd Bukhori explained that floodwaters from several affected upstream districts will flow through rivers in Kota Setar requiring constant vigilance.
He urged residents to remain alert and immediately comply with any evacuation orders issued by authorities.
The director emphasised that refusal to evacuate in other districts had previously hampered rescue operations and forced rescuers to work in dangerous nighttime flood conditions.
Mohd Bukhori identified several already affected subdistricts in Kota Setar including Mukim Langgar covering Kampung Tanjung Inggeris.
He also listed Mukim Anak Bukit as affected with waters reaching Kampung Alor Gunung, Alor Madi, Alor Senjaya, Seberang Chegar and Pantai Johor.
Mukim Titi Gajah villages including Alor Petang, Alor Senjaya, Bohor and Seberang Titi Gajah are also experiencing rising water levels.
The director confirmed that Mukim Tajar involving Kampung Kuar and Alor Pak Ngah has similarly been affected by incoming floodwaters.
Mohd Bukhori noted that current water levels remain manageable and have not yet entered residential properties.
He expressed hope for continued good weather without additional rainfall or tidal phenomena that could worsen the flooding situation.
The Civil Defence director also issued a separate warning to beachgoers regarding current dangerous sea conditions.
He reminded the public that unstable weather makes all water activities particularly hazardous at this time.
Mohd Bukhori stressed that visitors must immediately comply if Civil Defence lifeguards issue warnings or raise red flags at beach watchtowers.
He referenced a recent drowning incident in Langkawi as a tragic example of what can happen when water safety warnings are ignored.
The director confirmed that the Malaysian Meteorological Department has issued official warnings for strong winds and rough seas.
These conditions present significant dangers to small boats, recreational activities and all water sports.
Homes located near coastal areas could also be affected by the adverse weather conditions according to meteorological warnings. – Bernama
