Kuala Lumpur: Continuous monsoon rain has triggered severe flooding across seven Malaysian states, pushing more than eleven thousand people out of their homes and into temporary evacuation centres. Authorities warn that the situation remains uncertain as water levels continue to rise in several regions.
According to the national disaster management agency, 11,009 people from nearly 4,000 families were affected as of early Monday. Kelantan has recorded the highest number of evacuees, with more than 8,200 residents forced to leave their homes. Several districts in the state saw rivers bursting their banks after hours of intense rainfall, cutting off some rural communities and damaging homes, crops and village roads.
Kedah, Penang, Perak, Perlis, Terengganu and Selangor have also reported worsening conditions. More than 60 relief centers have been activated to accommodate displaced families. Shelters are providing food, dry clothing, medical aid and bedding as local authorities prepare for a possible increase in evacuees if the rain continues.
Perlis experienced one of the most dramatic developments after a landslide near Wang Kelian blocked access to highland communities. About 400 people were briefly stranded before they were guided to a mosque located on safer, elevated ground. Officials said they were safe and being assisted until roads are cleared.
In Penang and Perak, authorities reported a steady rise in evacuations overnight. Several low lying neighborhoods were flooded within a short period due to water flowing from highland catchment areas. Local teams have been helping elderly residents and children move to safer locations.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department has issued continuous heavy rain warnings for parts of Kelantan, Terengganu and northern Perak. Strong currents in some rivers have prompted warnings to avoid fishing, crossing bridges and driving through flooded roads. Rescue teams have been deployed in all affected states to monitor river levels, respond to emergency calls and relocate families at risk.
Officials say that while flooding during the monsoon season is common, this year’s rainfall has been exceptionally intense in some areas. The rapid rise in water levels has placed additional pressure on drainage systems, especially in semi urban regions of Kelantan and Kedah.
Local governments are coordinating with federal agencies to distribute essential supplies, assess damage and prepare for additional shelters if the situation worsens. Volunteers from community groups and humanitarian organizations have also joined relief efforts, delivering meals, bottled water and basic hygiene kits to families staying at evacuation centers.
Residents in flood prone areas have been urged to stay alert and follow official updates, as rain is expected to continue in parts of the country over the next two days. Authorities have also reminded the public not to attempt travelling through flooded roads, which remain one of the biggest risks during the monsoon season.