LANGKAWI: A powerful storm is wreaking havoc in Langkawi, with continuous heavy rain and strong winds hampering activity on the island and causing widespread damage.
More than 10 vehicles were damaged after being hit by uprooted trees along Jalan Pantai Kok here, while the roofs of several houses were torn off by strong winds at several locations.
In spite of numerous pictures of damage and destruction making their rounds on social media, Langkawi OCPD Supt Dr Che Ghazali Che Awang said no one has yet come forward to report losses.
“They are probably still assessing the damage, but we have deployed our personnel to the ground to check the situation and to offer assistance where required,” he said.
Langkawi Disaster Management Committee Chairman Isahak Murat said three families at Kampung Belak at Mukim Kedawang were evacuated after water levels reached the floor of their homes.
“They are currently being sheltered at the Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Kedawang while waiting for the weather situation to improve,” said Isahak, who is also the Langkawi District Officer.
Earlier, he said that tour operators on the island have been advised to cease their seaside activities for the time being as a precautionary measure.
He also advised the fishing community to continue monitoring weather reports and to seek advice from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) before deciding to go out to sea.
“The committee’s operation room has been activated at the Langkawi District Office to enable the public to channel or obtain any information regarding flooding or storm disasters that have occurred in their areas,” he added.
The operation room can be contacted at 04-9666963. -- BERNAMA