KOTA KINABALU: Sabahans have been urged to remain vigilant as the state braces for continued wet weather and thunderstorms over the next five days.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the latest analysis by the Malaysian Meteorological Department shows weak easterly and westerly winds are expected to dominate, increasing atmospheric moisture and triggering rain and thunderstorms across multiple districts.
He said Sabah’s west coast is forecast to experience morning showers over coastal waters, with thunderstorms likely in the afternoons and evenings.
The interior districts, along with Kudat in the north and Sandakan and Tawau on the east coast, are also expected to see morning rain over the next five days, followed by widespread thunderstorms later in the day.
Arthur urged residents to closely monitor official weather warnings and take early precautions.
“I want the people of Sabah to have access to authentic and up-to-date forecast data so that disaster risks arising from this wet weather can be managed more effectively at the community level,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (Feb 25).
He advised the public to follow official channels such as the myCuaca mobile app, the MetMalaysia portal and its social media platforms for the latest updates.
“I urge all Sabahans to remain vigilant against sudden weather changes, especially in the afternoon and evening. Please ensure the safety of yourself and your family by staying informed,” he added.
As of 4pm on Wednesday, the state disaster management committee reported that the number of flood victims had risen to 2,616 across five districts, amid ongoing evacuation efforts.
Pitas recorded the highest number of evacuees, with 930 people from 177 families displaced, followed by Beaufort (359 victims from 108 families), Membakut (211 victims from 82 families), Sipitang (196 victims from 80 families) and Sook (73 victims from 25 families). All affected residents have been placed in temporary relief centres.
Flooding first struck Pitas and Paitan in Beluran on Feb 18. Overnight rain later triggered floods in Beaufort, Membakut, Sook, Sipitang and Tenom on Wednesday (Feb 25).
The flood situation in Beluran and Tawau has since shown signs of improvement.
