KOTA KINABALU: Two houses have been destroyed in a landslide along the Penampang-Tambunan road, while another sits precariously amid further soil movement.
It is learnt that the affected residents rushed out of their homes at Kg Sogumau Madsiang when they felt movement and noticed cracks in the soil at around 1am on Thursday (Sept 18).
Penampang fire station chief Zeno Tingalan said occupants of several houses on a slope in the area have already been advised to evacuate for safety reasons.
“No one was injured when the two houses were destroyed, but we are concerned about the other structures nearby,” he said.
He said firemen wrapped up operations at 2.20am after assessing the area.
Geologist Prof Dr Felix Tongkul said soil conditions remain saturated and loose, although there has been no rain for the last 36 hours.
He urged residents, especially those living on or near slopes, to remain vigilant and leave their homes immediately if they see cracks in the soil or notice trees slanting.
