ALOR STAR: Nearly all 114 identified flood hotspots in Kedah have been inundated following the third wave of floods in the state since Saturday.
State Civil Defence Force deputy director Major (PA) Muhammad Suhaimi Mohd Zain said the affected districts include Baling, Sik, Padang Terap, Kubang Pasu, Langkawi, Kota Setar, Pendang, Yan, Kuala Muda, Kulim and Bandar Baharu.
"A total of 21 flood relief centres have been activated in five districts, which are Kubang Pasu, Kota Setar, Pokok Sena, Baling and Pendang.
"Eight rivers in the state have exceeded the danger level, with the most critical being Sungai Anak Bukit in Taman Aman, Kota Setar, causing water to overflow onto the roadsides," he said after overseeing operations in Kampung Alor Madi today.
He said the sudden rise in water levels was due to extreme downpours from late afternoon into the night, far exceeding normal rainfall.
"Heavy rain in the upstream areas of Sungai Padang Terap also contributed to water flowing into Kubang Pasu and Kota Setar, and high river levels are slowing water discharge to the sea," he added.
Suhaimi assured the public that the agency was ready for all eventualities, including the high tide forecast for Oct 18 to 20.
"We have informed the headquarters, and if the situation worsens, we will request assistance from other state branches."
State Malaysia Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) director Muhammad Khalil Abd Aziz warned that heavy rain and thunderstorms were expected to persist in the state throughout the week until Oct 14.
"Typically, these weather patterns bring heavy rain and strong winds in short bursts, especially in the late afternoon and early evening. Thunderstorms may occur in most states in Peninsular Malaysia during this time," he said.
"Stay informed with the latest updates from MetMalaysia and follow any instructions from the authorities."