Monsoon rains have unleashed severe flooding in Malaysia and southern Thailand, claiming the lives of more than 30 people and displacing tens of thousands. The relentless downpours over the past five days have wreaked havoc on the region, particularly in Malaysia's northeastern states of Kelantan and Terengganu.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reported that the recent heavy rainfall equaled the amount typically accumulated over six months, leading to extensive damage to roads and homes. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly, using boats to deliver essential supplies to those trapped by the rising waters.
The government has estimated that repairing the flood-damaged infrastructure will cost approximately 1 billion ringgit ($224 million). As the region grapples with the aftermath, authorities are preparing shelters and evacuation plans in anticipation of another potential surge of monsoon rains, forecasted to hit on Sunday.
Currently, about 91,000 people across eight states are residing in schools, community halls, and relief centers, down from 150,000 evacuees last Sunday. The majority of those displaced, about 88 percent, hail from Kelantan and Terengganu, underscoring the severe impact on these communities.
Reference(s):
Death toll from floods in Malaysia, S Thailand rises above 30
cgtn.com
