LABUAN: A residential area here was hit by a tornado-like storm, damaging 33 houses and leaving one man injured.
The incident, which occurred at about 9.40pm on Tuesday night, saw strong winds ripping off rooftops at MPL Housing near Tanjung Aru, damaging several vehicles and uprooting large trees in nearby areas.
The victim, identified as Wong Kwet Kiong, 64, suffered head injuries after being hit by flying debris.
Labuan Fire and Rescue Department director Abdul Rahman Ali said it received a distress call at 10.12pm and a fire engine with eight personnel was dispatched to the scene.
“When we arrived, the housing area was in darkness following a power supply disruption. Several roads were blocked by scattered debris and fallen objects.
“We were unable to determine the actual number of affected residents as many of them had already moved to their relatives’ homes for temporary shelter,” he said, Bernama reported.
He added that firemen focused on clearing the roads and removing debris to ensure the area was safe for residents and emergency access.
“Several vehicles were also damaged by debris, while a number of large trees in the vicinity was uprooted,” he said.
Azahar Aziz, 36, said he was at home with his parents and siblings when the incident occurred.
“It started with rain, followed by lightning and strong winds. When we noticed the winds getting stronger, we quickly closed the windows.
“Not long after that, the roof was blown away and the house was flooded,” he said.
