Kedah APM on high alert for floods as northeast monsoon begins
90 flood-prone areas had been identified statewide, with priority given to locations within the Kedah River and Muda River basins
ALOR SETAR - The Kedah Civil Defence Force (APM) is on high alert for potential flooding following the start of the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon (MTL) today, which is expected to last until March next year.
Kedah APM director Lt Col (PA) Mohd Bukhori Mat Sidik said 90 flood-prone areas had been identified statewide, with priority given to locations within the Kedah River and Muda River basins, covering eight high-risk districts.
"The initial phase of the Northeast Monsoon is expected to bring three to five episodes of prolonged heavy rain, which could cause flooding in areas near rivers and low-lying locations.
"Under the Kedah River Basin, the districts at risk are Kubang Pasu, Kota Setar, Pendang and Pokok Sena, while those in the Muda River Basin are Kuala Muda, Baling, Sik and Kulim,” he told a press conference here today.
He said the APM and agencies under the State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) had made the necessary preparations in terms of assets, logistics and manpower to deal with any unforeseen situations caused by excessive rainfall.
Mohd Bukhori said continuous heavy rain since last Saturday had caused flooding in several districts, prompting the opening of three temporary evacuation centres (PPS) in Yan, where none had been opened in previous years despite heavy rain.
"We are prepared to deploy 556 land and water assets, along with 927 APM personnel, should severe flooding occur. Meanwhile, the Kedah State Disaster Management Committee agencies have also put 6,041 land and water assets and 3,658 personnel on standby,” he said.
He also advised Kedah residents to postpone visits to recreational areas during the monsoon season to avoid the risk of sudden water surges.
"It is raining heavily now and we are concerned about sudden water surges. At present, the APM is not monitoring these recreational areas, but we will respond if called upon to rescue anyone.
"We urge everyone to remain vigilant and take steps to prevent untoward incidents. Most importantly, evacuate immediately if flooding occurs in your area, for your own safety and that of rescue personnel,” he said. - BERNAMA
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