National warning centre forecasts continuous rainfall Jan 9-11 as unusual flooding hits multiple areas
KUCHING: Sarawak faces the prospect of worsening weather conditions as existing floods continue to disrupt communities across the state.
The National Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre in Putrajaya released a new alert today warning of heavy rainfall expected to strike Sarawak.
According to the centre’s public statement, the state should anticipate continuous precipitation from January 9 through 11, with conditions likely to trigger additional flooding.
Eight divisions face elevated flood risk: Kuching, Samarahan, and Serian in southern Sarawak, along with Betong, Sri Aman, Sibu, Mukah, and Sarikei in the central region.
The centre advised residents in flood-prone areas to maintain heightened vigilance.
Meanwhile, Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, noted during a public engagement that flooding has spread to unusually extensive areas.
Speaking while chairing a flood preparedness meeting at the Matu District Office, he highlighted that districts like Matu are experiencing unprecedented flood coverage.
Communities not typically affected by severe inundation are now facing significant water levels, he observed.
The deputy minister added that heavy rainfall and flooding are occurring earlier than historically expected patterns.
The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department continued ground-level flood assessments today.
Along the Serian-Sri Aman highway, rescue personnel documented flooding in multiple villages, with water reaching knee-depth inside kampung residences.
Sarawak is currently experiencing the full impact of the monsoon season.
