Four deaths due to northeast monsoon: MMEA

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has so far coordinated 12 search and rescue missions and the death toll caused by the northeast monsoon stands at four since Oct 24.

MMEA director-general maritime admiral Mohd Zubil Mat Som said most cases involved small fishing boats that had overturned and sunk after being hit by strong waves.

"Sadly, most of the fishermen involved were found to be neglecting safety measures while at sea," he said in a statement today.

He advised the maritime community, especially small boat fishermen, tour boat operators and passengers to focus on safety aspects while at sea and be aware of weather changes.

He said all those heading out to sea must make ensure that their boats and safety equipment were in good condition.

According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department's, Mohd Zubil said the northeast monsoon which started on Oct 24, is expected to continue until March next year.

He also urged the maritime community to contact MERS 999 or Putrajaya MRCC at 03-89413140 in case of emergency or for information.

Meanwhile, in Kelantan, the second wave of floods that hit several districts in the state saw the number of evacuees rose to 3,149 victims involving 1,059 families as at 5pm today.

According to the social welfare department's InfoBencana portal, Jeli recorded the highest number of evacuees with 1,796 victims from 60 families who are taking shelter at 12 centres, followed by Tanah Merah with 926 victims from 235 families at 18 centres.

Kuala Krai has 214 victims (60 families) at four centres; Machang, 156 victims (50 families) at three centres and Pasir Puteh, 57 victims from 20 families at a centre.

Meanwhile, two major rivers in the state have exceeded danger levels.

The water level of Sungai Kelantan in Kuala Krai rose to 25.24metres (above the danger point of 25m) while the reading of Sungai Kelantan at the Guillemard Bridge was 16.41m (16m).

The Sungai Golok water level in Jenob, Tanah Merah had gone up to 25.64m (23.50m), Sungai Golok in Rantau Panjang is at 10.61m (9m) and Sungai Golok in Kuala Jambu rose to 3.30m (2.5m).

The weather was cloudy with occasional heavy rain this evening and fortunately no road closure was reported.

The second wave of floods in the state claimed the life of a 52-year-old man from Kampung Renak, Tanah Merah who was found drowned at 10 am today. - Bernama