MIRI: Storm and heavy rain hit Miri city again causing destruction to eight houses and a secondary school here.
State Assistant Communications Minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin said the roofs of these low cost terrace houses in Permyjaya residential area were ripped off by the thunderstorm that occurred from mid-night until early this morning.
“The roof of one block at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan St. Joseph has also been ripped off and the Public Works Department has been asked to repair it as soon as possible,” he told reporters when visiting the scene here today.
He said the affected house owners were advised to make insurance claims as they were still paying their month instalments.
The Welfare Department had also been asked to provide the necessary aid to the affected families while a local contractor, Naim Cendera would help to repair the damaged houses, he said.
Lee also wanted the Meteorological Department and agencies related to natural disaster aid management to make early preparation to face any eventuality of thunderstorms hitting the city.
“Last year the same area (Permyjaya) was badly hit, last month the same thing occurred but not as serious as today, so there should be early preparation to study the weather pattern and wind direction,” he said.
Meanwhile Miri Fire and Rescue chief Law Poh Kong said no loss of lives were reported so far.
Last July 10, Miri city was hit by thunderstorms that caused the roofs of two longhouses in the interior to be ripped off by winds and fallen trees in the town areas.--BERNAMA