GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Civil Defence Force (APM) has identified 287 flood-prone areas statewide as the monsoon transition period kicks in today.
State APM director Lieutenant Colonel Cuthbert John Martin Quadra said these areas were identified based on information received as well as their own monitoring each time it rained heavily.
He said the Seberang Prai Tengah district had the most number of flood-prone areas at 95, Northeast district (56), Seberang Prai Utara district (56), Southwest district (47) and Seberang Prai Selatan (33).
"Taking this situation into account, the APM is prepared to face any eventualities. All personnel in the five districts have been trained on victim relocation protocols, boat handling and management of (flood) relocation centre, including asset checks.
"On top of that, 20 land vehicles, including 11 lorries, have been put on standby to evacuate flood victims, along with 28 boats, from these flood-prone areas.
"APM also has two amphibious craft (Sealeg), which can operate on both land and sea, apart from 14 ambulances," he said when met after inspecting the assets at the state APM office in Lorong Ayer Itam, here, today.
According to Cuthbert, some 1,200 officers and personnel would be stationed in each district during any disaster to safeguard the people's safety.
He also said APM had prepared a systematic standard operating procedure (SOP) to relocate victims, especially those who were undergoing Covid-19 related quarantine at home, to temporary flood relief centres.
"We have our own SOP and guidelines in handling any possible Covid-19 cases in flood relief centres. As such, we urge for the cooperation from all to inform our personnel if they are undergoing quarantine.
"As for the people, they should remain vigilant of any possible disaster, more so those staying near rivers or low-lying areas.
"Keep your personal documents and medicines close to you at all times so that it is within reach at times of emergencies," he added.
Malaysia is expected to go through the monsoon transition phase beginning today, which will bring with it thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds in a short period of time.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) said these weather conditions also had the potential to cause flash floods and damage to unstable infrastructures.
The monsoon transition phase is expected to last until early November.