Heavy rain and strong winds alert: Sabah, Sarawak brace for severe thunderstorms

KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 — Malaysia’s Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a thunderstorm warning for several areas across East Malaysia, cautioning residents to expect heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning until 6:00 pm today.

The warning, released at 3:35 pm, covers a wide section of Sarawak, including the districts of Kuching, Serian, Samarahan, Kapit (Song), Miri (Miri and Marudi), and Limbang.

In Sabah, the alert applies to the Pedalaman region — specifically Sipitang, Kuala Penyu, and Beaufort — as well as Ranau on the West Coast, Tawau, and parts of Sandakan, encompassing Telupid, Kinabatangan, Beluran, and Sandakan town. WP Labuan is also included in the warning.

MetMalaysia stated that such warnings are triggered when storm indicators show rainfall intensity exceeding 20 mm per hour is either imminent or expected to persist for more than one hour. The alert is valid for a maximum of six hours from the time of issue.

Residents in affected areas are advised to remain indoors where possible, avoid open spaces and elevated ground, and stay away from trees and electrical installations during the storm. 

Members of the public are encouraged to monitor updates through the official MetMalaysia website and the myCuaca mobile application.

المصدر: Malay Mail