Severe Weather Warning: Number of Flood Victims in Kelantan Rises, Other States on High Alert

KUALA LUMPUR, El Sky News — The flood situation in Malaysia, particularly along the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is increasingly worrying as the number of evacuees moved to Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) continues to surge. Kelantan remains the hardest-hit state, recording the highest number of displaced residents, while several others have been instructed to prepare for potential follow-on flood waves.

Kelantan at Critical Level

According to the latest report from the Social Welfare Department (JKM), as of this morning, the total number of flood victims in Kelantan has exceeded the thousands, prompting the opening of more PPS in districts such as Pasir Mas and Tanah Merah.

Rapid increases in water levels along the Kelantan River basin and its major tributaries have inundated extensive low-lying areas. Local authorities reported that access to several villages has been completely cut off, complicating relief deliveries and rescue operations.

“Residents in identified high-risk areas are urged not to delay evacuation when instructed. Do not wait until the last minute, as strong currents can endanger lives,” a spokesperson for the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) warned in a statement yesterday.

Full Preparedness Directive

Following a severe weather warning issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), forecasting continuous heavy rain and strong winds in the coming days, the Prime Minister has directed all federal and state disaster response agencies to elevate their preparedness to maximum alert.

Key preparedness measures include:

• Logistics Readiness: Ensuring food supplies and essential items at PPS are sufficient to support the expected rise in evacuees.
• Asset Mobilisation: Positioning rescue boats, trucks, and medical teams at strategically accessible locations.
• Effective Communication: Enhancing early warning systems to alert residents regarding rising water levels and evacuation zones.

Security personnel, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), have reportedly been deployed to assist rescue efforts and safeguard properties left behind in affected areas.

Monitoring High-Risk States

Beyond Kelantan, close attention is also being given to states such as Terengganu, Pahang, and Johor, which are historically prone to severe flooding during the Northeast Monsoon season. State governments have taken proactive steps, including activating 24-hour disaster operation rooms and conducting final checks on flood-prevention infrastructure.

The public is advised to monitor official weather updates, avoid riverbanks or drains with fast-moving currents, and keep important documents and personal medications in safe and easily accessible locations.