SHAH ALAM, Dec 29 — Floods and flash floods, which occur frequently throughout the year in Selangor, are believed to have been caused by heavy rains and sewage systems clogged with rubbish.
Selangor Fire and Rescue Department director, Datuk Norazam Khamis, said that the frequency of such disasters will increase this year due to frequent heavy rains in the state due to global climate change.
Following the major floods in Selangor last year, he said that the state fire department has increased its level of preparedness by taking precautionary measures to patrol flood-prone areas during heavy rains, instead of waiting for emergency calls from the public.
“This year, there were more heavy rains in some places in Selangor causing flash floods, but flood water in the affected areas mostly recedes one to two hours later. The majority of residents do not want to evacuate because the water recedes quickly,” he said when contacted by Bernama.
He also said that the increase in the number of housing projects across the state has also contributed to the floods, as the drains in some areas are too small and narrow and cannot catch the flow of rainwater.
“We see that most ditches and drains are cleaned regularly, but when it rains, in some areas, rubbish is carried by the rainwater into the drains, clogging them and causing flooding.
“We advise the public to pay attention to cleanliness and dispose of rubbish in designated areas, so that the flow of rainwater is not affected by rubbish dumped indiscriminately,” he said.
He also said that the high tide phenomenon occurring simultaneously during heavy rains also contributed to flooding, especially in Klang, Kuala Selangor, and Sabak Bernam districts.
Norazam also advised residents living in low-lying areas and who are frequently affected by floods to take precautions, and be vigilant for weather changes from time to time.
“This is crucial, especially during heavy rains and the northeast monsoon season; these residents need to prepare early to protect their property and reduce losses during floods,” he said. — Bernama
