Malaysia and Thailand Brace for Second Wave of Heavy Rain and Potential Flooding
Malaysia and Thailand are facing a second wave of heavy rain and potential flooding this week, authorities announced on Monday. This comes even as some displaced residents were able to return home and the worst floods in decades began receding in some areas.
Since last week, torrential rain and flooding have caused devastation across both countries, leaving 27 people dead and impacting over half a million households. Authorities have described the floods as the most severe in decades.
While the immediate situation has improved in some areas and water levels have eased, concerns remain high. In Malaysia, the number of people in evacuation shelters has dropped to around 128,000, down from 152,000 on Sunday. However, the northeastern state of Kelantan, which has been the worst hit, is expected to face a fresh deluge beginning Wednesday.
"Although floodwater trends show a slight decrease, [the chief minister] stressed that vigilance measures must remain at the highest level," a Facebook post from the chief minister's office stated.
In southern Thailand, the situation remains critical, with 434,000 households still affected by the floods. This represents a decrease of about 100,000 from the weekend. The government has provided food and supplies to those in the flood-hit areas, and water levels in seven provinces are decreasing.
However, the Thai Meteorological Department warns that people in the country's lower south should remain vigilant. Heavy to very heavy rains are expected from Tuesday through Thursday, potentially leading to flash flooding and overflows, especially along foothills near waterways and lowlands.
Authorities in both countries are urging residents to remain alert and follow instructions from local officials. They are also working to provide assistance to those affected by the floods.