PASIR MAS: Some 500 residents of Taman Desa Wira Jaya near Lubok Jong were forced to abandon their homes early following the flood situation in the area.
The residents, a majority of them army personnel and their families, have left their homes since last week as they were afraid the situation might worsen if they moved late.
Self-employed Mohd Khairuddin Md Yusof moved his family moved to his mother's home in Bachok.
"We started to pack our belongings last week as preparation for the flood.
"However when we heard that the Golok river overflowed its banks yesterday, we decided not to wait any longer and went to Bachok this morning," said the 41-year-old.
The father of three said most of his neighbours moved in stages since last week.
"Of course, we are sad to leave our home in a hurry like this but we have no choice. For me, my family's safety is my priority," he added.
Another resident who only wanted to be known as Nur Nisa said her family went back to her hometown in Kota Baru last week.
"Like other residents, we have experienced huge flood almost every year since we moved here in 2018.
"We have suffered a lot of losses due to the disaster and some could not hold the burden anymore and chose to let go of their house," said the 35-year-old.
A survey at the housing area this evening showed that all houses were empty.
Notices on sale or rent were seen hanging outside some of the houses.
A police vehicle was also spotted checking the houses to ensure no untoward incidents like house break-ins occur.