Continuous rain pushes up water level in Rajang River

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SIBU: Flooding is inevitable here if the inclement weather persists in the upper reaches, as water level in the Rajang River surged but came short of touching the alert level yesterday.

According to Sibu Divisional Disaster and Relief Committee chairman Sim Kok Kee, continuous downpour in the upper catchment areas will certainly increase the likelihood of flooding in Sibu.

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s (UKM) Southeast Asia Disaster Prevention Research Institute director Professor Datuk Dr Ibrahim Komoo was recently quoted as predicting that the monsoon season this time around would bring 40 per cent or 880mm more rainfall than last year.

“The water level in Rajang River is rising but thus far, it is still below the alert level,” Sim, who is also Sibu Resident, told The Borneo Post yesterday, adding that the surge in water level was due to the incessant rain in the past few days.

He disclosed that floods in some low-lying areas, such as Belian Lane, were flash floods caused by clogged drains.

“However, if there is continuous downpour in the upper catchment areas, this will certainly increase the probability of flooding in Sibu,” he said.

Some residents in low-lying areas here are not taking any chances and have hurriedly moved their belongings to higher grounds.

Met at Merline Lane 2 yesterday, 28-year-old construction worker, who wished to be identified only as Timothy, said he would not be taking chances after the unpleasant experience last year.

“Water entered our house and damaged several of our electrical appliances as we were caught off guard by the swift flood water.

“If you notice, the drains along this lane have swelled and this is a clear indication that we need to be prepared for possible flooding,” he said worriedly, adding that he had bought some rations.

A quick observation in low-lying areas such as Merlin Lane revealed that water level in the drain was fast rising and only a few inches away from the main roads.

Elsewhere in Belian Lane, there was flooding along certain portions of the sunken road.

In an earlier interview, Sim revealed that 22 flood-prone areas had been identified in Sibu division as they stepped up flood preparations.

He also assured that there would be enough evacuation centres in Sibu division that could be activated promptly if the need arose.

“To provide speedy response and assistance to potential flood victims we have enlisted the help of government agencies – Fire and Rescue Services Department (Bomba), Police, Army, Civil Defence Department (JPAM), Rela, Welfare Department, Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) and Public Works Department among others,” he said.