GEORGETOWN - Flash floods hit several areas surrounding Tun Abdul Razak Complex (Komtar) following heavy rain earlier today.
In addition to Komtar, other areas affected by flash floods include Tanjung Tokong, Air Itam, Datuk Keramat, Transfer Road, Rangoon Road, Macalister Road, and Magazine Road.
A prominent nasi kandar restaurant on Macalister Road experienced significant flooding, causing water to inundate the dining area. Meanwhile, a check along Transfer Road revealed that while the main road was filled with water, it remained passable for light vehicles.
These flash floods led to considerable traffic congestion throughout the city.
According to updates on Komtar State Assemblyman Teh Lai Heng's Facebook page, various areas in Komtar experienced flooding levels reaching up to knee height.
A government employee named Ahmad, in his 30s, said that flash floods were a frequent occurrence during heavy rainfall in the city.
He explained that although the rain was exceptionally heavy earlier, such flash floods were a common phenomenon.
"Typically, the water level would briefly rise, but it wouldn't reach extreme heights, allowing light vehicles to navigate the area.
"The water would usually recede within an hour," he said.
Reports indicated that the flash floods in all locations had subsided approximately an hour later.
Meanwhile, Penang Fire and Rescue Department Director Saadon Mokhtar disclosed that they received emergency calls concerning fallen trees in several locations in Seberang Perai Utara.
He attributed the incidents to strong winds and heavy rain, which caused numerous trees to topple and roofs to be blown off houses. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties.
Despite heavy rainfall causing flash floods in various areas of Penang, no evacuations were required.
The Fire and Rescue Department continues to monitor the situation periodically.
Local authorities (PBT) and residents collaborated to clear most of the fallen trees, while the Penang Social Welfare Department (JKM) will manage houses affected by the inclement weather.