GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Civil Defence Department has identified 10 areas at risk of flash floods sparked by the unusual high tide phenomenon expected to take place at the end of this week.
Its director Pang Ah Lek said the 10 areas were the same areas that had experienced flash floods due to the same phenomenon last month.
The 10 area are Batu Ferringghi, Tanjung Bungah, Teluk Bahang, Teluk Kumbar, Balik Pulau, Penaga, Pantai Bersih, Telok Air Tawar, Pulau Aman and Sungai Udang.
“We have 1,020 officers, with most of them already stationed at the 10 areas to provide 24-hour surveillance. Various equipment such as boats and five-tonnes lorries are also on standby to tackle any problems," he told a press conference here today.
Other than Penang, three other states - Perak, Selangor and Kedah - are expected to be hit by the high tide phenomenon, which began yesterday and is expected to last until Oct 19.
The sea level is expected to rise by up to three meters.
Pang said the department would be increasing surveillance this weekend when the sea level is expected to be at its highest.
“The high tide in the state are expected to occur at 11am and 1am. Based on the information received, the water would be at high tide on Oct 17 about 1am, at three metres. On Oct 19, the water is expected to be at 2.9 metres," he said.