RANAU: Climbers on Mount Kinabalu had a harrowing experience early Thursday when torrential rain caused river-like formations with torrents of water flowing down the mountain, posing huge safety risks.
Some climbers were temporarily stranded, while others had to brave the strong torrents. Climbers who began their ascent later from Panalaban were stopped at the Sayat-Sayat checkpoint as the rain showed no sign of letting up.
Many had to postpone their ascent along the mountain trail due to the weather. By around 3.30am, most chose to return from Sayat-Sayat when it became clear that the downpour would persist.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});Those on the way back down after having reached the summit eventually made it safely to the Laban Rata resthouse by around 6am.
They shared their ordeal on social media during the gut-wrenching moments, as mountain guides struggled to keep everyone safe while reminding climbers to brace themselves against the safety rope along the trail.
Viral videos also showed mountain guides telling the climbers not to stop but to continue their climb down while at the same time remaining calm and not to panic. Ranau Fire and Rescue Chief Rantey Fred said no untoward incidents were reported.
He reiterated his advice to all future climbers to take a serious assessment of their health before climbing Mount Kinabalu.
“It is important that all climbers always remain vigilant, especially when descending the slippery rocky areas at the top of Mount Kinabalu,” he said.
Rantey said although the situation in Ranau is under control, his department is bracing for any eventuality as a result of the windy and rainy condition.
“So far, we have received no serious complaints or reports from the public in regards to the strong wind and rain condition. Since the phenomenon began about four days ago, there were only minor incidents such as broken branches.
“More serious cases like fallen trees or blown away house roofs are not reported. Nevertheless, we hope no such occurrence would happen here until the weather improves,” he said, advising the public to keep safe and make safety a priority.
“Restrict outdoor activities for the time being and make sure children are looked after well when they are outside,” he said.
He added that anyone who hears or sees any hazardous situation in their areas to notify the authority concerned.
“They can reach us via the 999 emergency line or call the Fire Station at 088-878779,” he said.
