Beaufort, Sabah, has been severely affected by flooding following continuous heavy rainfall over the past few days. Rising water levels have displaced hundreds of residents, forcing them to seek refuge in temporary relief centers. The situation has worsened as floodwaters continue to rise, submerging homes, vehicles, and agricultural land.
According to The Star, as of the morning of March 8, 2025, 418 people from 121 families were evacuated to two relief centers in Beaufort. By the afternoon, the number increased slightly to 420 evacuees. However, the situation deteriorated overnight, and by the morning of March 9, The Star reported that the number had surged to 780 individuals from 249 families. The increasing number of evacuees highlights the severity of the disaster, prompting authorities to ramp up relief efforts.
The floods have also caused significant damage to infrastructure. Two major roads, KM152 of the Keningau-Tenom Road and KM14 of the Keningau-Kimanis Road, were closed due to landslides triggered by continuous heavy rain (The Star). Many vehicles were left stranded, while floodwaters reached the rooftops of several homes in low-lying areas.
The Sabah Disaster Management Committee, in coordination with various rescue agencies, has been actively responding to the crisis. The Malaysian Civil Defence Force and firefighters have been deployed to assist in evacuation efforts and provide aid to stranded residents. The Malay Mail reported that the overall number of flood victims in Sabah had risen to 522 as of March 8. Rescue teams have been using boats to reach those trapped in their homes, ensuring that they are safely transported to relief centers.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department has warned that more heavy rain is expected in the coming days, increasing the risk of prolonged flooding. Authorities have urged residents to stay vigilant, follow evacuation orders, and avoid traveling through affected areas. Relief centers are being stocked with essential supplies, including food, clean water, and medical aid, to accommodate the growing number of evacuees.
The flooding has also impacted local businesses and farmers. Many crops have been destroyed, and livestock farmers are struggling to save their animals. The economic impact of the disaster is expected to be significant, with losses amounting to millions of ringgit.
As relief efforts continue, authorities are also focusing on post-flood recovery, including providing assistance to families who have lost their homes and belongings. Residents remain hopeful for improved weather conditions and a swift recovery from the disaster.
Credit from the star, malaymail
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