Freak storm uproots trees in Penang, causes massive jams and floods

 

GEORGE TOWN: A freak storm hit Penang on Tuesday (April 19) during evening rush hour, uprooting trees and causing traffic congestion on the island and mainland of Penang.

In Batu Uban, a fallen tree near Batu Uban traffic light has blocked the road and caused massive congestion.

Penang Island City Council (MBPP) in a Facebook post said their hotline unit received complaints from state Fire and Rescue Department and public about a big tree uprooted near a traffic light of Batu Uban following heavy rain and strong wind.

"The incident has caused the road there to be blocked for a while and cannot be accessed by motorists," said the statement.

MBPP Rapid Squad (Skuad Pantas MBPP) was dispatched to the location to expedite the clearing and removal of the uprooted trees.

However, no casualties were reported during the incident.

Public can contact MBPP for any incident about fallen trees, landslides and others, through MBPP Hotline online 04-263 7000 / 04-263 7637 or 016-2004082 (WhatsApp).

Heavy rains and thunderstorms in the state have uprooted trees in several areas in Central Seberang Prai.

Central Seberang Prai Civil Defence Force (APM) officer Kapten (PA) Mohd Fadhil Fahmi Zaini said two victims cheated death when uprooted trees fell on to three cars at Bandar Perda.

Kapten Mohd Fadhil, however, said the victims were rescued APM personnel that were dispatched to the location in the 7.25pm incident.

"Our personnel managed to cut one of the fallen trees and both victims that were trapped were rescued," he said.

He said two uprooted trees were also reported at Jalan Berapit at about 8.25pm.

Meanwhile, heavy rain has caused flash floods at several areas in Bukit Mertajam such as Taman Guru at Kubang Semang and Tanah Liat. - Star