KUCHING, March 18: Flash floods have struck major roads, streets and residential housing areas across Kuching and Samarahan following heavy rain and thunderstorms this morning.
According to information posted on the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Media Group chat, areas that have been affected include the Mile 7 flyover heading towards Mile 6 flyover, which was heavily inundated with flood waters as the storm drains have overflowed.
This also caused traffic disruptions as vehicles were forced to stop and wait for floodwaters to reduce or recede before driving on as the high level of waters were too dangerous for smaller vehicles and motorcycles in particular.
One vehicle was also reported to be caught in floodwaters as it was attempting to navigate the already flooded Mile 3 flyover underpass.
A photo that has gone viral in social media also spotted two vehicles submerged in the underpass.
Flood prone areas like Desa Wira and Kampung Sinar Budi Baru in Batu Kawah were also not spared from the heavy downpour that lasted for almost four hours.
Other areas reported to be affected include part of Jalan Ong Tiang Swee, Lorong Hup Kee, Mile 7 commercial area, Bormill Estate near Aeon Mall, Gala City, some parts along Jalan Batu Kawah, Jalan Durian Burung near BDC and roads along Darul Hana.
Traffic in certain parts of the city are also reported to be congested as motorists attempt to circumnavigate flooded roads.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) issued a thunderstorm warning at 9am today, with heavy rain expected in Kuching, Serian, Samarahan and Miri until 2pm today. — DayakDaily
