More than 3,000 people had to be evacuated.

(CLO) As of the morning of January 12, 2025, the number of people affected by the severe flooding in Johor state, Malaysia, has exceeded 3,000, up from 2,524 the previous evening.

According to a report from the National Disaster Management Authority of Malaysia (NADMA), 3,295 people from 960 households in the districts of Kota Tinggi, Kulai, Johor Bahru, Kluang, and Pontian have been evacuated to 34 temporary shelters.

Car rescue operation in Kota Tinggi, Malaysia. Photo: Facebook

Kota Tinggi is the hardest-hit area, affecting 1,160 people. The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) forecasts heavy rains will continue in the coming days, increasing the risk of flooding in other districts such as Batu Pahat and Mersing. The severe weather is attributed to the annual monsoon season, which runs from October to March.

Coastal areas in eastern Malaysia, including Johor, frequently experience flooding during this time, forcing thousands of people to evacuate each year.

Rescue teams worked tirelessly to assist residents in relocating to safety. A notable incident occurred on Jalan Liku Cina, near Taman Aman, where a man became trapped on the roof of his car after it was swept away by floodwaters.

Kota Tinggi police chief Yusof Othman said, "The car got stuck on a utility pole, and the driver climbed onto the roof to escape the floodwaters. Thanks to the efforts of the rescue team, the man was brought to safety."

Local authorities have issued an emergency alert, urging residents in high-risk areas to be prepared for evacuation. Meanwhile, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Service (JBPM) in Johor is actively assisting in relocating residents, especially the elderly and children, to safe temporary shelters.

NADMA also advised people to limit travel through deeply flooded areas, and to continuously monitor weather conditions and follow instructions from authorities.

In recent years, Malaysia has frequently faced severe flooding due to prolonged heavy rainfall. In 2021, a historic flood forced the evacuation of over 60,000 people and caused extensive property damage.

Hong Hanh (according to NADMA, MetMalaysia, CNA)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/lu-lut-o-malaysia-hon-3000-nguoi-phai-so-tan-post330052.html