KANOWIT (Jan 13): A second temporary evacuation centre (PPS) was opened at the Kanowit Sports Complex today after severe flooding forced 20 residents to leave their homes.
According to the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), the PPS is currently providing shelter to 10 families from Rumah Leo and two individuals from a house in Nanga Lipus.
“The instruction to open the second PPS was issued by Kanowit District Officer Jackline August at 11.30am,” SDMC stated. “The Kanowit District Disaster Management Committee is conducting the relocation and updating data of flood victims. Updates will be provided from time to time.”
The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) reported that their team arrived at Nanga Lipus at 11.15am to assist in evacuating 18 adults and two children.
The challenging terrain added to the complexity of the rescue mission. The road to Rumah Leo was submerged, preventing Bomba vehicles from reaching the location, which is approximately 10 kilometres from Kanowit town.
“Firefighters, along with police and Civil Defence Force personnel, had to walk to the longhouse. Upon arrival, they found water levels rising to about two feet deep,” Bomba said.
After assessing the situation, rescue agencies advised the residents of Rumah Leo to evacuate immediately for their safety as water levels continued to rise.
Kanowit has been facing heavy rainfall over the past few days, leading to widespread flooding and displacing several communities. The opening of the second PPS underscores the seriousness of the situation and the commitment of local authorities to ensure the safety of the affected residents.
