SIBU Flood (March 8): Several areas along Jalan Kong Yit Khim in Sibu were flooded this evening after continuous heavy rain, which began yesterday, coincided with high tide conditions.
Rudi Abang Zamhari, the divisional engineer for the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) in Sibu, explained that the flooding was caused by a combination of persistent rainfall upstream in Baleh and Rajang, along with the high tide.
According to DID’s Public InfoBanjir website (https://publicinfobanjir.water.gov.my/), the water level at the Sungai Salim B station reached 3.29 meters by 8 p.m., surpassing the danger level of 3.10 meters. Other stations along major rivers also recorded elevated water levels, including Batang Rajang in Kanowit town at 5.07 meters (alert level), Durin Bazaar at 4.16 meters (warning level), Sungai Kanowit at 6.86 meters (alert level), Batang Oya at 13.39 meters (warning level), and Sungai Lemai at 3.71 meters (warning level).
The situation has raised concerns for residents in flood-prone areas, especially with the risk of further rainfall in the coming days. Authorities are closely monitoring water levels and urging the public to stay informed through official channels to ensure their safety.
Residents are also advised to avoid low-lying areas and be cautious around rivers and drainage systems. Local flood relief teams are on standby to assist those in need, while authorities continue to assess the damage caused by the ongoing floods.
This flooding event underscores the importance of early preparation and timely responses to weather-related emergencies, especially in regions like Sibu, where the combination of rainfall and high tide can quickly lead to rising waters.
