KOTA KINABALU: The recent flooding at Sabah’s west coast was caused by unusual heavy rainfall.
State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Noor said the recent flooding here though serious, was ‘unavoidable’ and a common issue faced worldwide.
"The people must understand that in the face of unexpected heavy rainfall, even modern countries which are better equipped (to handle floods), will struggle to prevent floods," he explained.
He said this to reporters after officiating Sutera Harbour Resort National Day 2017 celebration here.
Hajiji further added that proactive measures needed to be taken to allay growing public concerns on facing the flood problem, including alerting authorities concerned to be on standby mode and monitor if water levels are rising.
“Moving forward, all district officers were also told to activate their respective disaster management committees to clear trenches and waterways which could be blocked and in turn worsen flooding.
"And we know relief efforts are already being planned (for possible evacuations)," he added.
The state’s west coast districts here and neighbouring Penampang, Tuaran, Papar and Kota Belud saw water levels rising in several areas, when abnormal rainfall patterns were recorded since Sunday.
Monday which recorded nearly triple the normal rainfall level (135 milimetre compared to 30-50 mm daily average), saw even the whole of Manggatal town being inundated and nine schools in several districts closed.
Though the situation improved on Tuesday but authorities have nevertheless cautioned locals to brace for bad weather until Friday.
As of 8am today, daily rainfall in Kota Kinabalu was recorded at 17mm.