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Sarawak opens first relief centre, closes Lawas airport due to floods

KUCHING: Limbang has opened its first relief centre at 11am today, following reports of flash floods in northern Sarawak, particularly in the interior and low-lying areas.

A total of 18 victims from three families were taken to the temporary relief centre after their homes in Kampung Seberang Kedai and Kampung Gelapas were hit by flash floods.

State Disaster Relief Management Committee, in a statement today, said it expected more victims to be housed at the relief centre today.

Meanwhile, he said, Lawas Airport was closed since 7am due to floodings.

Malaysia Airports has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) alert of the closure until the situation improves.

It is learnt that the runway and parking apron area were inundated by over two feet of floodwater.

"There will be some cleaning works to be done before the runway can be declared safe and ready to be reopened,"

Meanwhile, six schools in Lawas were also reported to be flooded after the Lawas river burst its banks.

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