RESIDENTS in Penang have been urged to stay alert despite stabilising flood conditions following a severe continuous heavy rain warning issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
The authorities warned of possible flash floods, river overflows, mudflows and landslides over the next few days.
According to national flood data, seven states remain affected, with evacuee numbers rising in Kelantan, Kedah, Perlis, Perak and Terengganu.
Selangor recorded a slight drop in evacuees, while the situation in Pahang remains unchanged.
In Penang, the last temporary relief centre in Central Seberang Perai, namely SK Permatang Pasir was closed at 11am on Thursday after all eight remaining evacuees returned home.
State disaster response teams remain on standby and on high alert.
Earlier this week, sudden heavy rain triggered flooding in Tasek Gelugor, forcing 128 victims from 30 families to evacuate to two centres — Kampung Desa Puri and SK Pengkalan Jaya.
River water levels across Penang have returned to normal, according to the Irrigation and Drainage Department.
The department said reduced rainfall in recent days had helped stabilise overall conditions.
MetMalaysia’s severe continuous heavy rain warning remains in effect until Saturday (Nov 29).
Other affected areas include Kulim and Bandar Baharu in Kedah; Perak; Terengganu; Cameron Highlands, Lipis, Raub and Bentong in Pahang; and Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.
MetMalaysia advised the public to follow updates via its website, the myCuaca app and official social media channels. The public may also contact its hotline at 1-300-22-1638.
Authorities reminded residents in at-risk locations to prepare for possible evacuations and to follow all safety instructions to protect themselves and their families.
