Penampang, Sipitang hit by flash floods following continuous rain

PENAMPANG: Penampang and Sipitang districts have been experiencing flash floods following persistent heavy rain since early this afternoon, Sabah Public Works Department said in a statement on Sunday (June 30).

Due to the flash floods, Jalan Kota Kinabalu-Keningau-Tenom, Jalan Limbanak, and Jalan Pukakon-Pomotodon in Penampang are impassable for all types of vehicles.

"Besides the floods, a landslide incident occurred on Jalan Kota Kinabalu-Keningau-Tenom near Kampung Timpoluon. Cleanup work is currently underway, but no alternative routes are available," read the statement.

It was also reported that the flash floods had submerged several bridges on Jalan Limbanak and Jalan Pukakon-Pomotodon, posing a hazardous situation for road users. There are also no alternative routes available.

Sabah Public Works Department also noted that flash floods have affected several areas in Sipitang, including Jalan Kota Kinabalu-Sindumin, Pekan Sipitang and the Sipitang Public Market.

"Continuous rain has caused the sea level to rise, leading to backflow discharge drainage. Currently, the affected roads are still passable, but users are advised to proceed cautiously," it said.

Meanwhile, the Penampang District Police Headquarters reported that several villages, including Kampung Kolopis and Kampung Sugud, have been affected by the flash floods, resulting in road closures.

"The public is advised to plan their journeys and use alternative routes as several roads around Penampang are flooded due to the heavy rain," Penampang IPD said in a statement.

Penampang IPD’s Investigation and Traffic Enforcement Division staff have been deployed to the flood-hit areas to assist road users.

"They are diverting vehicles away from the flood and landslide-prone roads while ensuring traffic safety," it said.

Meanwhile, the Malaysian Meteorological Department has warned of thunderstorms in Sabah's western coastal areas, Kudat, Tongod, Beluran and inland regions, which are expected to last until 7pm. – Bernama