As rain continues, residents, authorities stay vigilant in Sabah

 

Fire and Rescue department personnel help residents in Kampung Taun Gusi evacuate from their homes. - Pic courtesy of Fire and Rescue

KOTA KINABALU: Heavy rains persisted in districts north of the state capital here, keeping residents and the authorities on alert overnight.

Around 6am, three families were evacuated from their homes as flood water levels rose in Kampung Taun Gusi, Kota Belud.

Earlier in the same west coast district, two families were evacuated from their homes in Kampung Suang Punggur at around 11.30pm last night, the Fire and Rescue department reported.

According to a spokesman, all the victims were transported to Chung Hwa Hall which is being used as a temporary flood relief centre.

Floods were also reported in several villages in the district yesterday as well as in Pitas, further north of the state, placing relevant agencies on alert for the last 48 hours.

Strong winds had also lashed several coastal villages and districts south of here, coupled with tidal waves since Thursday.

Rains have stopped in most areas but the weather remains gloomy.

Meanwhile, the Civil Defence Force said a total of 651 people were evacuated to relief centres since late Thursday when heavy rains and strong winds began in the west coast as well as northern districts. - NST