BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: A sudden gust of wind reaching speeds of up to 60km/h swept across the country on Tuesday (Sept 17) afternoon, uprooting trees and causing damage to several vehicles.
Numerous reports of trees falling onto roads were received by the Bulletin, with images and videos circulating widely on social media. One video also captured a roof being blown off a building during the storm.
Earlier in the day, the Brunei Meteorological Department had issued an Amber Weather Warning, alerting the public to the risk of flooding in low-lying areas across all four districts: Brunei-Muara, Tutong, Temburong, and Belait.
The unexpected burst of strong winds and heavy rain caught many households off guard. Some rushed to their balconies to save laundry as the downpour soaked areas that were initially sheltered.
The storm also caused heavy traffic in several areas, including in the capital and Berakas as trees were uprooted and blocked main roads and highways.
The Fire and Rescue Department was kept busy throughout the afternoon, working to clear fallen trees and debris to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of road users.
In addition to trees, roofs were seen either partially or completely blown off, alarming nearby residents. Fortunately, the extreme weather was brief, and no serious injuries were reported.
Debris, including fallen trees and other windblown objects, was scattered across main roads and highways, leaving cleanup crews with much work to do after the storm passed. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
