KUALA LUMPUR: Low-lying areas along the peninsula's west coast face flood risks as the northeast monsoon begins today, with residents urged to heed weather warnings.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) International Strategic and Sustainable Development Goals Consultancy Centre principal fellow Professor Dr Mohd Ekhwan Toriman said recent heavy rain had affected several areas, including Yan, Kuala Muda and Pendang in Kedah, as well as low-lying areas in Penang and Penampang, Sabah.
He said the northeast monsoon, expected to last until March next year, would bring strong winds, prolonged rain and rising sea levels along coastal areas.
"When heavy rain coincides with high tides, river water cannot flow into the sea, causing it to back up and overflow onto land and into residential drainage systems.
