KUANTAN: Raub has become the first district in Pahang to be hit by floods in the current monsoon season after Sungai Lipis burst its banks following incessant heavy rain since Friday.
State Civil Defence Force director Zainal Yusoff said 47 people from two villages were evacuated to a surau in Cheroh and a community hall in Kampung Ulu Sungai in Raub overnight.
He said the first relief centre in Cheroh was opened at about 9.25pm on Saturday after two houses in Kampung Melayu Cheroh were inundated by ankle-deep water.
"As the overflowing river water continued to rise, 10 victims from two families were immediately told to vacate their homes. Later, at about 11.30pm, Kampung Ulu Sungai was hit by the river water, forcing 37 victims to be evacuated.
"Police and firemen helped us to relocate the victims, while Welfare Department staff provided assistance at the relief centres," he said.
Zainal added that although the rain has stopped in Raub, the river’s level continues to rise and remains at the danger mark.
The number of flood victims evacuated to relief centres in Raub has increased to 68 as of noon, compared to 47 earlier today.
State Civil Defence Force director Zainal Yusoff said a third relief centre was opened at the Kuala Semantan Community hall at 8am to accommodate 21 evacuees from five families.
He said yesterday, 47 people from 14 families were evacuated to a surau in Cheroh and a community hall in Kampung Ulu Sungai here after Sungai Lipis burst its banks following incessant heavy rain since Friday.
"The victims are those staying in low-lying areas along Sungai Lipis, and they were immediately evacuated to relief centres before the situation could get worse.
"Since the weather has improved and the river is now flowing downstream, we have reminded those living along the river (downstream) to be prepared to leave their homes in the event that their homes are inundated," Zainal added.