Maran and Raub hit by floods, 199 people evacuated

 

One of the houses inundated by floodwaters at Kampung Ulu Dong in Raub today. - Pic courtesy of Raub Civil Defence Force (APM)

KUANTAN: The first wave of floods which hit several districts in Pahang has forced 199 people from 57 families to be evacuated to 10 relief centres today.

As of 8pm, 109 victims were taking shelter at five evacuation centres in Maran while another 90 victims were moved to five relief centres in Raub.

A Welfare department spokesman said the victims were evacuated in stages since this morning after their homes were submerged following 48 hours of continuous rain.

A resident checking his house at Kampung Ulu Dong in Raub today. - Pic courtesy of Raub Civil Defence Force (APM)

"Earlier today, 33 victims in Kuantan were moved to three relief centres but they were allowed to return home in the evening after the flood waters completely receded. Even Sungai Lembing town which was inundated in the morning has recovered.

"All the agencies have been put on standby to face the monsoon season and we seek cooperation from residents whose homes were hit by floods to immediately vacate their premises when ordered by the authorities," he said.

The flood situation at Kampung Ulu Dong in Raub today. - Pic courtesy of Raub Civil Defence Force (APM)

Meanwhile, a Fire and Rescue department spokesman said uncertain weather patterns and high volume of rain within a short duration were among the major concerns which might trigger flash floods.

"Firemen have been on standby since it started raining on Wednesday and we were on the ground to assist flood victims today. We have teamed up with several agencies to ensure smooth evacuation operations," he said. - NST