Batu Pahat residents take early precautions as high tide remains within riverbanks, with forecasts warning of higher levels through December 10.
BATU PAHAT: Residents in Taman Nira and Kampung Muhibbah expressed relief that today’s high tide did not overflow riverbanks or drains.
Despite the low water levels, they remained prepared following last month’s flooding incident.
Long-time resident Mahmood Ibrahim, 78, said high tide events over the past decade have been unusually frequent and severe.
“As of 10 am today, the tide was still occurring but remained within the banks and off the roads,” he said.
Mahmood noted the phenomenon, once an annual December event, now occurs almost every month.
He said residents are grateful the current water level is low, avoiding major disruption.
High tides also raise concerns about venomous animals like snakes entering homes, he added.
Residents now routinely check monthly tide forecasts issued by the Drainage and Irrigation Department (JPS).
They also rely on JPS social media alerts for real-time updates, according to Mahmood.
Another resident, Nurul Syuhadah Ab Razak, 24, said they prepared by moving important belongings to higher ground.
“According to JPS updates, the tide is expected to be higher on Saturday compared to today,” she said.
A Bernama check between 8.30 am and 10 am found water levels remained below riverbanks.
Daily activities in Taman Nira, Kampung Muhibbah and Kampung Dalam Peserai were not disrupted.
Johor flood forecast data warns of high tide levels between 2.4 and 3.6 metres from December 3 to 10.
The advisory covers Batu Pahat, Johor Bahru, Muar, Kukup and Mersing. – Bernama
