PETALING JAYA: It’s not just the political temperature that has been rising but water levels too, so voters should keep tabs on the weather, experts have advised.
The nation heads to the polls on Nov 19 in the north-east monsoon season that has already resulted in floods in several states.
MCA’s Crisis Relief Squad (CRSM) national chief Datuk Natalie Lim Chong Ly said members of the public should monitor the latest weather advisories and instructions from the authorities in their areas.
“If you receive an evacuation order, go to the evacuation centre right away,” she said when contacted yesterday.
“When leaving the house, make sure it is locked and notify the village chief, community leader or authorities. Take the designated evacuation route when leaving.”
Earlier this month, the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) said the north-east monsoon would begin on Nov 7 and last till March.
The department forecast possible floods from Nov 6-11 and Nov 22-27, particularly if there is incessant rainfall coupled with high tides.
Yesterday, water reached dangerous levels at Sungai Long Jegan in Sarawak, Sungai Selangor in Kuala Selangor, Sungai Siam and Parit Keliling in Johor, Rantau Panjang in Kelantan, Sungai Linggi in Negri Sembilan and Sungai Melaka in Melaka.
Environmental expert and GE15 candidate Dr Nurul Ashikin Mabahwi said the authorities must ensure flood warning systems are in place and in working condition.
“We should and must prepare residents in flood-prone areas,” she said when contacted, adding that people in these areas must find out in advance where to evacuate to in case of flooding.
Nurul, who holds a PhD in Regional Environment Systems from Japan’s Shibaura Institute of Technology, is contesting in the Ampang parliamentary seat.
She said no safety measures had been announced by the authorities on how voting is to be conducted in the event of floods.
“I am still waiting for the authorities to release their plan to ensure voters can vote if there is flooding on Nov 19,” said the Pejuang candidate.
