KOTA KINABALU: Those living on or beside hills and slopes are urged to be extra cautious as landslide risks have increased in the current rainy season.
The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department secretariat issued the alert following reports of multiple landslips and mudslides across the state, including Kundasang, Ranau, Menggatal, Penampang and Kota Belud.
The cases range from minor to severe, such as the incident involving a homestay in Kg Gorowot Sinisian, Kundasang on Tuesday (Oct 20) evening.
According to the secretariat, this latest case involved a huge chunk of the slope falling due to erosion and mudslides, threatening the structure of the homestay which sits at the edge of the affected area.
Operation commander Becket Gumat said his team rushed to the scene at 4.20pm after receiving a call to inspect and assess the damage.
He advised the homestay operator and nearby residents to be vigilant and ready to leave when it rains or if the slope continues to slide.
The secretariat urged the public to watch out for early warning signs such as new cracks on the ground, roads or walls of buildings; dirt and rocks starting to fall; trees, poles or fences slanting abnormally; unusual water flows from cracks or in nearby streams and rivers; or loud sounds of cracking and shifting ground.
"When there are such signs, first assess the situation and leave if necessary.
"Safety must be the priority," it said, adding that those in affected areas should call the 999 emergency number when this happens.
It advised the public to stay away from high-risk areas and use alternative routes when leaving, refrain from spreading unverified information, and adhere to instructions from the authorities when asked to leave or move.
