ALOR STAR: The spike in flood evacuees at temporary flood relief centres (PPS) in Kedah is attributed to people returning from travel during the school holidays and the high tide phenomenon.
Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM) chief commissioner, Datuk Aminurrahim Mohamed, said this explains the increase in evacuees, particularly in Kota Setar district, despite the improved weather.
"Kedah is among the worst-hit states, with the number of evacuees nearing 8,000 people.
"However, we are viewing the situation from different angles. Many residents have likely just returned from travelling during the week-long school break.
"Only after returning home have they proceeded to register at the PPS, which explains the sudden increase in evacuee numbers," he told reporters after visiting flood-hit Kampung Chegar in Anak Bukit today.
Also present were Kedah APM director Lieutenant Colonel (PA) Zairil Anuar Zulmuji and his deputy Muhammad Suhaimi Mohd Zain.
Aminurrahim added that the high tide phenomenon was another contributing factor to the widespread flooding in the state.
"It will take some time for the floodwaters to recede, but from our observations, the situation is improving," he said.
Commenting on the monsoon transition, expected to begin this Tuesday and last until early November, Aminurrahim assured that the agency is prepared for the conditions.
"As we know, strong winds are expected during the monsoon transition, which may affect weak soil structures, resulting in incidents of uprooted trees.
"Data shows a significant rise in uprooted tree incidents in Kedah this September.
"There have been 1,930 cases reported in September compared to 1,047 last month and 1,053 in July," he said, adding that the agency has identified several hotspots.