LAHAD DATU: Witnesses which saw a weather phenomenon resembling a tornado on Jalan Segama Industrial State, Batu 1 here likened the experience to a scene from a Hollywood movie.
Business owner Chia Tet Vui, 62, said before the incident, the area was slightly overcast when a small whirlwind appeared suddenly and grew larger before dissipating just before heavy rain hit.
"I have been in business in this area for almost 31 years and this is the first time my wife, children and I have encountered such a thing. I was genuinely afraid when I saw it.
"The incident happened swiftly. It was around 1.30pm and although the shop was closed briefly because it was Friday. I left the back door open and saw strong winds swirling, accompanied by the sound of strong wind blowing," he said when interviewed by Bernama on Saturday (March 16).
On Friday (March 16), Lahad Datu district police chief ACP Rohan Shah Ahmad confirmed the whirlwind-like phenomena appeared in the area, which tore off several zinc roof sheets from buildings. The rare occurrence was captured by the public and various videos were posted on social media.
Chia added that several zinc sheets were ripped off his roof.
"At first, I was unaware that the zinc roof had been blown away. It was only later when rain started coming into my shop that I realised what had happened. I immediately rushed to relocate my goods and patch up any leaks," he said.
Another witness, housewife Malia Jalil, 50, who was at a nearby supermarket during the incident, expressed relief that there were no injuries.
"It was terrifying, the whirlwind was so strong, lifting several pieces of zinc roofing from shophouses and almost hitting some vehicles.
"I heard people shouting out warnings; it was a really unexpected experience," she added. – Bernama
