66 evacuated in Perak
Victims moved after floods hit Larut, matang and Selama
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 66 flood victims from 30 families in Perak have been evacuated to a temporary relief centre after several areas in the Larut, Matang and Selama districts were inundated.
The District Disaster Management Committee, in a statement, said all the victims from Kampung Simpang Halt had been taking shelter at Dewan Orang Ramai Simpang Halt since 10pm on Thursday.
The Perak Irrigation and Drainage Department reported that the water level of Sungai Rui at Jambatan Jalan Raya Perak in Hulu Perak reached a warning level of 165.55m, exceeding the normal level of 165.10m.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (Metmalaysia) had forecast thunderstorms and rain in the afternoon and evening for most districts in the state, including Larut, Matang and Selama, Kerian, Perak Tengah, Hilir Perak, Kuala Kangsar and Kinta.
Meanwhile, in Melaka, the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) conducted a boat handling exercise in preparation for the northeast monsoon.
In a statement yesterday, it explained that the purpose of the exercise was to ensure that all officers and personnel were on standby for swift deployment to disaster locations, particularly during floods.
The training covered key areas such as boat rescue operations, basic boat engine maintenance, drowning rescue techniques and the use of throw bags for rescue.
A total of 80 people took part, including officers and personnel from the state office, district offices and APM unit offices across Melaka.
Metmalaysia announced on Nov 11 that the northeast monsoon season had started and is expected to continue until March next year.