IPOH: Despite being largely spared the effects of tropical storm Senyar, Perak, remains on high alert as heavy rain is expected to persist over the coming days, says Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
He said with meteorological reports initially listing Perak among the states likely to be impacted, latest forecasts showed that the storm passed through Perak and Selangor before moving towards the South China Sea.
“Despite the relatively mild impact of the storm on Perak, the state will maintain full preparedness in case conditions worsen over the coming days,” he said at the sidelines of the state assembly sitting here yesterday.
Saarani said that despite several temporary relief centres (PPS) having already been closed or reporting fewer occupants as some evacuees returned home, he cautioned that floods could recur as continuous rain is expected for another few days.
“I have instructed all district officers to remain on standby. With this weather, floodwaters may rise again, and houses where water had receded may be flooded once more, and the same victims may have to return to the PPS.
“The state disaster management centre at the State Secretariat building is fully equipped to provide real-time updates on weather conditions and emergency coordination.
“Preparations across districts appear solid, with the Social Welfare Department ensuring sufficient food supply and other essentials at PPS, including tents and sleeping arrangements,” he said.
As of 2pm yesterday, the number of flood victims in Perak stood at 5,503.
According to the state’s disaster management committee spokesperson, a total of 1,663 affected families are now staying at 46 temporary relief centres across six districts, namely Larut, Matang and Selama, Manjung, Perak Tengah, Bagan Datuk, Hilir Perak and Muallim.
Manjung recorded the highest hit district with 2,273 individuals from 689 families housed at 18 relief centres, followed by Perak Tengah with 1,434 individuals from 407 families across nine centres, and Hilir Perak with 1,391 individuals from 439 families across 11 centres.
The spokesperson said several locations in six districts in the state were affected by fallen trees, though no casualties or damage were reported.
Meanwhile, state infrastructure, energy, water and public transport committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin said in the state assembly sitting yesterday that seven old bridges and small crossings costing RM1.097mil were repaired and upgraded this year to strengthen the infrastructure to cope with the vagaries of nature.
He said the Public Works Department conducted regular inspections and maintenance to ensure these bridges remain safe and functional.
“Maintenance is also carried out for drainage systems, including roadside drains, culverts, and river drainage systems, to prevent blockages and reduce the risk of flooding,” said Mohammad Nizar.
