KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is closely monitoring worsening weather conditions, and damage wrought by the tail end of tropical storm Lan on the west coast of the state.
Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman said the State Disaster Relief Committee and district level committees have been activated to assist those affected by the inclement weather, including flood victims in hardest-hit areas.
"It is one of the most severe (and sustained) storms we have experienced in a long time.
"I am aware there is a lot of damage caused by the strong winds, including rooftops blown off and trees uprooted," he said in a statement today.
Musa said relevant authorities at the state and federal levels are monitoring the situation and updating the public through existing channels, including social media.
"I also caution the public, especially children, to refrain from being outdoors during stormy weather and to listen (to) directives by authorities to move to safer ground," he said.
The meteorological department had warned of heavy rains and strong winds hitting the west coast of Sabah over the last few days.
While thunderstorms are expected to end today, authorities have cautioned against shipping and boating activities in Sabah waters, as strong winds and waves are expected to last until Saturday.
Lan, which has intensified into a typhoon according to international news reports, is moving from the east of the Philippines and has the potential of developing into a super typhoon, posing a direct threat to Okinawa and mainland Japan this weekend.
Meanwhile as of 2pm, flood victims in Kota Belud district increased from 128 on Wednesday night to 180. They have all been temporarily placed at the Tun Said community hall.
More than 20 uprooted tree incidents were recorded in various districts on the west coast as of 2pm today, with two involving trees falling onto vehicles and six onto houses, according to district fire and rescue departments.
However, no casualty has been reported.
As of 4pm, downpours continue in several areas on the west coast.