GEORGETOWN: The Penang government has received nearly 200 reports of fallen trees, some of which have damaged houses and vehicles, at various locations across the state due to storms and heavy rains over the past three days, as of noon today.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said they were aware of the weather warning issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) regarding storms and heavy rain, which are forecast to continue until tomorrow.
"On the first day, Sunday, we received reports of fallen trees caused by strong winds at 90 locations. This included incidents involving three houses and eight vehicles at six different spots on the island.
"On the second day, we received additional reports from nine more locations, including two homes affected by fallen branches.
"Some of these cases have been addressed by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), and cleanup operations are still ongoing at several affected sites," he said at a press conference at the Tun Abdul Razak Complex today.
Chow added that today, a total of 43 reports of fallen trees were received on the island, with 30 more reports from Seberang Perai due to strong winds and heavy rain that affected almost the entire state from 5am to 9am.
He noted that MBPP workers had reached 39 of the incident sites by noon, while Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) workers were also actively involved in cleanup efforts to ensure public safety.
"Rainfall was recorded at 110 millimeters per hour, causing flash floods in 43 areas in Seberang Perai Tengah and 28 areas in Seberang Perai Selatan.
"The flooding situation is being monitored by MBSP, the Drainage and Irrigation Department, and other authorities. We are awaiting a more comprehensive report on today's incidents," he said.
Chow also mentioned that no temporary evacuation centres have been opened so far, but preparations are in place for any eventuality.
High tides have been detected at several jetties, including Lim Jetty, Chew Jetty, and Tan Jetty in Weld Quay.
The state government is closely monitoring the situation and is ready to assist in case of damage to jetties or if immediate repairs are needed due to current conditions.
"I also want to remind everyone that MetMalaysia's warning remains in effect until tomorrow, so rain and storms could still occur.
"I urge all residents and tourists to be cautious during storms, avoid traveling as trees may fall, and prioritise personal safety to prevent any unfortunate incidents," he said.
Meanwhile, Bayan Lepas assemblyman Datuk Azrul Mahathir Aziz stated that high tides reached the shore of Pantai Teluk Bayu earlier this morning, making beach activities highly dangerous at this time.
"Fishermen's settlements were also affected, forcing them to relocate their fishing equipment. I ask for patience and prayers as we face these storms, rains, and unpredictable weather conditions.
"Take immediate action if any risks are anticipated given the current situation," said Azrul, who is also the deputy speaker of the Penang State Legislative Assembly.