GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government is on high alert to face the monsoon transition phase, which has seen flooding in several states.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state disaster management unit was closely monitoring all forecasts and warnings issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
"We are focusing on our preparedness by establishing flood evacuation centres and logistical preparations to deliver assistance in the event of flooding.
"Relevant agencies need to be on alert to face any possibility," he told reporters at his office here today.
Penangites, especially those staying in coastal areas and those near rivers, have been told to stay alert as a high tide phenomenon is predicted from Oct 18 to 21.
Based on tide tables, Penang waters are expected to reach tide levels of between 2.8m and 3.1m CD (chart datum), with peak times between midnight and early morning.
The situation could potentially lead to flooding.
Meanwhile, Chow said the flooding in Kedah had not affected the operations of the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant (WTP).
He said the latest report indicated that the turbidity level of raw water was around 470 NTU, which is under control and does not affect the operations of the WTP.
"The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) will continue to monitor the situation, as the turbidity source is a result of flooding upstream in the Baling district.
"We do not want the flooding upstream to impact us, particularly concerning flooding itself and, importantly, the operations of the Sungai Dua WTP," he added.
It was reported yesterday that PBAPP was monitoring the turbidity levels of raw water at the Lahar Tiang intake due to heavy rainfall and flooding upstream of Sungai Muda.
PBAPP said the Sungai Dua WTP was operating as normal.