LAWAS: Floods continue to affect several low-lying areas along the Trusan River, with drone surveillance confirming inundated villages, submerged roads and restricted access in parts of Lawas district.
The Civil Defence Force Malaysia (APM) Lawas Drone Unit conducted an aerial monitoring operation at 2.05 pm today to assess the flood situation in affected areas.
The operation involved one officer acting as a drone pilot and one LLP personnel serving as a spotter.
According to the monitoring report, villages along the Trusan River, including Kampung Seberang Kadai Trusan, Kampung Gelapas Trusan, and Kampung Balai Trusan, were among the areas affected.
Aerial footage showed floodwaters at several low-lying zones near the river, including residential areas and main village roads. Some access roads were reported to be cut off and impassable to vehicles.
While the water level of the Trusan River was observed to be receding, authorities noted that the situation remained fragile, particularly in areas where roads had already been damaged or submerged.
In a separate monitoring exercise covering Kampung Bangkiai, Kampung Baru Sundar, SMK Sundar and Pekan Sundar, drone surveillance found several main roads inundated by floodwaters.
Small vehicles were unable to pass through the affected routes, with access limited to larger vehicles such as four-wheel drives.
Several houses in the Sundar area were also reported to be flooded. However, residents were reluctant to evacuate despite the rising water levels.
APM has advised villagers to remain vigilant and to be prepared for sudden rises in water levels, particularly in the event of further rainfall.
Authorities said drone surveillance remains a critical tool in providing real-time situational awareness, especially in areas that are difficult to access during flooding.
Flood monitoring and advisory efforts are expected to continue as weather conditions remain unpredictable.
