ALOR SETAR: The Kedah government has declared Yan and Kuala Muda districts as 'Level 1 disaster' areas following the severe flash floods that occurred yesterday.
This means the incident management is being handled by district-level agencies, without or with limited assistance from agencies outside the state.
Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said the declaration was made based on the National Security Council (NSC) Standing Order Number 20.
"All government agencies and statutory bodies related to disaster operations management are now taking necessary measures to ensure the calamities can be dealt with effectively.
"The private sector, as well as voluntary bodies who want to help, will be given adequate training under the coordination of the NSC," he said in a statement, today.
Muhammad Sanusi said his office apologised following the flash floods and water column incidents that occurred in both districts especially around the foot of Gunung Jerai, yesterday afternoon.
He said the incidents had claimed three victims and affected the lives of residents in nearby areas.
"On behalf of the state government and administrative officials, I extend my condolences and share my deepest sorrow with every family who lost a loved one in the incident.
"The state government will do its best and whatever necessary to restore the lives of affected residents.
"Though we are struggling with the disaster, I would like to remind the public especially those involved, as well as government officials and also volunteers who come down to help, to always take care of themselves because the Covid-19 threat is still around," he said.