KOTA KINABALU: The number of flood evacuees has decreased to 1,536 from 509 families as of 4pm on Saturday (Feb 1), thanks to improved weather and receding floodwaters.
According to the Civil Defence Force, evacuees from five other districts—Kota Marudu, Tongod, Telupid, Sandakan, and Kota Belud—have begun returning home after authorities confirmed that water levels had fully receded and homes were safe.
Currently, 10 temporary evacuation centres remain open in 25 villages across Beaufort, Lahad Datu, Beluran, Paitan, and Pitas.
Evacuation numbers in Beaufort, Lahad Datu, and Beluran remain at 110, 514, and 57, respectively.
Paitan saw a decrease to 36 evacuees, while Pitas reported an increase to 819.
Continuous heavy rain since Wednesday (Jan 29) has worsened flooding in Pitas, forcing hundreds to evacuate to five temporary relief centres.
The District Disaster Management Committee officially declared the flood at 10.40pm on Wednesday, following rising river levels and reports of inundation in multiple areas.
Authorities have been closely monitoring Sungai Kabatasan and Sungai Bengkoka.
While both rivers have shown gradual decreases in levels, residents remain on high alert.
Several roads leading to Kampung Tambilidon, Kampung Pinggan-Pinggan, and Kampung Salimpodon have been submerged, while Kampung Pinapak, Kampung Dandun, and Kampung Bitulung have been completely cut off.
Community Development and People’s Well-being Minister Datuk James Ratib visited the Pitas district operations control centre and relief centres to address concerns raised by affected residents.
During his visit, he approved RM40,000 in financial aid through the Social Welfare Department to support relief efforts, including allowances for response teams and fuel costs.
Additional aid includes RM2,000 in cash assistance for single mothers and B40 families.
The National Anti-Drug Agency has also provided 34 sacks of rice for evacuees.
Meanwhile, Sabah Oil and Gas executive officer Datuk Harun Haji Ismail contributed mineral water and snacks for relief personnel stationed at the district operations control centres.
As of 7pm on Saturday, no further rainfall has been reported in the district.
However, authorities remain on high alert, with rescue teams on standby for possible evacuations in flood-prone areas.
Residents are urged to stay informed and follow official updates as the situation develops.
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