IPOH: Flash floods in Manjoi and several areas here since last Friday were caused by intense rainfall rather than overflow from Sungai Perak, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said that the river level remained low, but persistent afternoon downpours overwhelmed drainage systems, triggering sudden floods in multiple locations.
“On the first night alone, 15 houses were reported affected. The situation continued over the following days, with water rising each evening.
“A Temporary relief centre (PPS) was opened briefly to assist residents, as the incidents were classified as flash floods,” he told reporters after visiting the Ramadan Bazaar near Stadium Perak here on Thursday (Feb 19).
When asked if the heavy rainfall was linked to cloud seeding operations, Saarani said the state government had requested for cloud seeding to address critically low water levels at major reservoirs, including Tasik Temenggor and the Bukit Merah dam.
“There were suitable cloud formations at the time, allowing the cloud seeding operation to proceed successfully and produce heavy rainfall.
“However, this is not something that can be fully controlled, and the operation was carried out in response to public appeals,” he said.
Saarani explained that the move was necessary due to low water levels at Temenggor Lake, Banding Lake and Cenderoh Lake.
He noted that without cloud seeding, prolonged dry weather would have threatened the sustainability of electricity generation.
“When reservoir levels are low, Tenaga Nasional Berhad is unable to release sufficient water downstream.
“This would lower river levels from Kuala Kangsar to Teluk Intan,” he said.
He added that cloud seeding was therefore crucial to ensure enough rainfall at Temenggor for TNB to sustain power generation.
If water levels become excessive, Saarani said the Cenderoh dam would release the surplus as required.
“At the same time, irrigation needs in the northern region must also be met. Bukit Merah Lake, which had dried up, needs to be refilled,” he said.
However, he said cloud seeding operations would continue only when suitable cloud conditions exist and after consultation with the Malaysian Meteorological Department.
