BEAUFORT: Heavy rain on Thursday caused flooding in several areas, including Keningau, Nabawan, Sook and Tenom, following a rise of the Padas River water level.
Civil Defence Department (APM) Officer Captain Hazle Shah Abd Hamid said rescue agencies are on standby to evacuate victims.
The water level in the Padas River has risen to 9.27 metres, surpassing the danger warning level of 8.70 metres.
The department has been monitoring affected villages.
Hazle said several roads have also been affected. Jalan Batu 60 is impassable for all types of vehicles, as is Jalan Kampung Bakalau. However, Jalan Kampung Bingkul, Kampung Gumarit, Kampung Lago, Kampung Suasa, Kampung Kukup, Kampung Bangkalalak and Kampung Berumbai remain accessible to all vehicles.
Two schools affected are Sekolah Kebangsaan Suasa and Sekolah Kebangsaan Lago.
Hazle said the water level is expected to continue rising due to water flowing from Tenom towards Beaufort. This situation has been exacerbated by high tide conditions.
Beaufort Fire and Rescue Station Chief Muhammad Hasbullah Nenggok said rescue teams, including from the Fire and Rescue Department, police, APM and other agencies such as the Health Ministry, Social Welfare Department and Rela, are on standby at the Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS).
He advised the Village Development and Security Committees (JKKKs) and community leaders to be prepared for evacuation of residents should the situation worsen.
He also advised residents in low-lying areas to store important documents in waterproof containers and to prevent children from playing in floodwaters due to the risk of encountering dangerous animals such as snakes and crocodiles.
Recently, there have been reports of crocodiles coming ashore in some flood-affected villages. Therefore, residents are urged to exercise caution when moving through floodwaters.
He further emphasised the importance of complying with evacuation orders from authorities. If residents are instructed to evacuate, they should do so immediately. Delaying evacuation could make it difficult for rescue teams to assist them as they may be occupied with other rescue operations.
At the PPS, residents need not worry about their safety and basic needs, as the Social Welfare Department provides separate tents for each family, along with food and drinks.
Health Ministry personnel conduct health checks, while the police and Rela ensure the safety of evacuees.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and stay updated on the latest developments to ensure the safety of themselves and their families.
