KUCHING: The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued warnings for heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds for 11 areas in Sarawak.
The warning, affects Kuching (Bau and Kuching), Serian, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong (Pusa, Betong, and Saratok), Sarikei (Pakan and Julau), and Limbang.
According to the department’s Facebook and website, the alert was updated on Tuesday (Dec 9) at 3.00 pm and remains valid until 6.00 pm the same day.
“The warning is issued when signs indicate a thunderstorm with rainfall exceeding 20 mm/hour that is occurring or expected to occur for more than one hour.
“A thunderstorm warning is a short-term alert valid for up to six hours per issuance,” the department said.
Earlier, the department also issued a first-category warning for strong northeasterly winds of 40 to 50 km/h with waves up to 3.5 metres over the waters of East Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, and Sarawak until today (Dec 10).
“This condition of strong winds and rough seas is dangerous to small crafts, recreational sea activities and water sports,” it said.
The public is advised to obtain the latest weather information through its official website, the myCuaca app, the department’s social media channels, or by contacting the hotline at 1-300-22-1638 for any inquiries.
Meanwhile, amid continuous rain, the Sarawak State Health Department has issued a flood advisory urging parents to monitor their children, prevent them from playing in floodwaters, and protect them from waterborne diseases.
The department also highlighted the risk of cholera, a highly contagious and dangerous diarrhoeal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae.
“Symptoms include severe diarrhoea and dehydration, appearing hours to five days after exposure,” it said.
The public is advised to maintain personal hygiene, wash hands thoroughly, drink boiled water, and avoid consuming raw, undercooked, or spoiled food.
