KUANTAN: Rompin and Raub today became the latest districts in Pahang to be struck by floods, as rain lashes the east coast state for a third consecutive day.
According to the Welfare Department's website, 289 victims from 84 families have been evacuated to nineteen relief centres in three districts, namely Maran, Rompin and Raub.
Two rivers in the state, Sungai Lembing here and Sungai Lipis in Raub, have surpassed their respective danger levels.
Sungai Lembing's water level now stands at 39.28m (danger level 36m) and Sungai Lipis at Batu Malim, Raub reached 115.03m (danger level 114.8m).
Earlier today, the East Coast Expressway (LPT1) on both bounds, between Gambang and Sri Jaya, was closed to all vehicles due to a 1km stretch at Km198 being inundated by floodwaters.
In a statement, Anih Berhad, the concessionaire of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway(KLK) and East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (LPT1), advised road users travelling to Kuantan and Kuala Lumpur to temporarily postpone their journeys, as the stretch was submerged in 2 metres of water.
Meanwhile, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said with continuous rain lashing the state, people are urged to take the necessary precautions.
He said water has begun to rise in several districts following continuous downpours over the past few days.
"I was informed that several districts were hit by the heavy rain. I hope the people in Pahang and those affected by the floods will take the necessary precautions.
"Please focus on safety aspects, especially involving children and the elderly. Adhere to the instructions issued by the authorities," he said in a Facebook posting today.