Civil Defence Urges Kota Setar Residents To Be Ready To Evacuate

ALOR SETAR, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- Residents in Kota Setar district living in flood-prone areas have been urged to be ready to evacuate if floodwaters from nearby districts such as Kubang Pasu and Pokok Sena flow into the area soon.

Kedah Civil Defence Force (APM) director Lt Col (PA) Mohd Bukhori Mat Sidik said monitoring by the agency found that water had begun flowing into Kota Setar and several areas were already inundated, although the situation remains under control.

“APM and other enforcement agencies are monitoring rivers in Kota Setar. Floodwaters from several affected districts will flow through rivers here, so we are on alert to ensure residents in high-risk areas remain vigilant,” he told reporters after inspecting Sungai Kedah here today.

He urged residents to stay alert and comply with evacuation orders to avoid a repeat of incidents in other districts where refusal to evacuate hampered rescue efforts, even forcing rescuers to wade through floodwaters at night.

Mohd Bukhori said this morning’s monitoring found several subdistricts in Kota Setar already affected by rising waters, including Mukim Langgar involving Kampung Tanjung Inggeris and Mukim Anak Bukit involving Kampung Alor Gunung, Alor Madi, Alor Senjaya, Seberang Chegar and Pantai Johor.

In Mukim Titi Gajah, affected villages are Alor Petang, Alor Senjaya, Bohor and Seberang Titi Gajah, while Mukim Tajar involves Kampung Kuar and Alor Pak Ngah.

“At present, water levels are rising but remain under control and have yet to enter homes. The increase is still slight. We hope for good weather with no rain or tidal phenomenon that could trigger flooding,” he said.

Mohd Bukhori also reminded the public, especially beachgoers, to heed APM instructions to prevent drowning incidents like the one recently reported in Langkawi.

“The current unstable weather is not suitable for any water activities. If APM lifeguards at watchtowers issue warnings or raise the red flag, please comply,” he said.

He added that the Malaysian Meteorological Department has issued warnings of strong winds and rough seas, posing danger to small boats, recreational activities and water sports, while homes near coastal areas could also be affected.

-- BERNAMA