Waterspout wreaks havoc on 28 houses in Penang

Twenty-eight houses were affected by yesterday's massive waterspout around theTanjung Bungah area, said Penang exco Zairil Khir Johari.

However, no injuries were reported, although the incident, recorded in a video which has since gone viral, saw zink roofs flying off as the waterspout moved nearer to land and dissipated after five minutes.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow visited the area where the damages occurred yesterday evening.

A total of 11 houses were in Kampung Tanjong Tokong (Bang Liao fishermen's village), 12 houses in Kampong Tanjong Tokong Lama and five units at Flat Uda Blok C.

When contacted, Zairil who oversees public works, utilities and flood mitigation, said his team is estimating the cost of the damage, but repair work has begun.

"Work to clear the damages are currently underway, and various teams are on the ground to address the situation," he added.

In his Facebook post today, Zairil said he had just arrived in China as leader of an official Penang government delegation when he received news of the strong tornado-like wind that hit the kampung areas of Tanjong Tokong.

"As other heads of department, including Public Works and Penang Island City Council, are with me here, we began making calls to coordinate efforts back home," he added in his post.

Zairil thanked all the members of his constituency service team who were on the ground immediately when the incident happened, assisting the relief efforts.

He said they also received much support from the Northeast District office, as well as from the fire department, public defence, works department and MBPP.

"Many thanks also to local developers, Ideal Properties, E&O and others, who are assisting with the repairs.

"Appreciation also to Pulau Tikus assemblyperson Chris Lee, who is helping out in my absence, and fellow exco Phee Boon Poh who is also on the ground to assist," he added. - Mkini