KOTA KINABALU: A total of 64 people from Kampung Suasa in Beaufort, about 90km South of Kota Kinabalu, were evacuated to the Selagon Permanent Evacuation Centre after the Padas River rose above the danger level following continuous rainfall.
The evacuees, comprising 20 heads of households, were relocated after the river level exceeded the danger mark of 8.7m.
In a statement, the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department said it received an emergency call at 4.10pm, prompting a team from the Beaufort Fire and Rescue Station to be deployed to the affected area, about 27km away.
Operations commander Muhammad Noor Haiqal Abdullah said the evacuation was carried out with assistance from the police and the Civil Defence Force.
“A total of 20 heads of households involving 64 flood victims were evacuated to the Selagon Permanent Evacuation Centre using a fire engine, with support from the police and Civil Defence personnel,” he said.
He added that continuous monitoring was being conducted in flooded areas using a Vigo utility vehicle, with fire personnel on standby should further evacuations be required.
Meanwhile, the Beaufort Civil Defence Force said the Padas River remained at a dangerous level of about 9.4m, influenced by ongoing rainfall since Jan 1 and high tide conditions in the afternoon.
Several roads in the affected areas have become impassable to all types of vehicles, including Jalan Kampung Suasa, Jalan Kampung Bakalau, Jalan Lago, Jalan Koundu, Jalan Kukup, Jalan Kangsa and Jalan Bangkalalak.
Residents in low-lying areas and those living near rivers have been advised to remain alert, comply with authorities’ instructions and be prepared to evacuate if directed.
