PETALING JAYA: The public needs to be on the lookout for signs that their areas could potentially be hit by flash floods, experts say.

       Climate expert Prof Datuk Dr Azizan Abu Samah said while chances of getting a “big” flood were slim, people should be wary of flash floods that occur due to thunderstorms and heavy rains.

       “If we receive continuous rain, for 48 or 72 hours, then floods can happen, but that is common during the north-east monsoon season in Malaysia.

       “The weather we’re experiencing right now – thunderstorms and heavy rain in the evening for about two or three hours – is often associated with flash floods,” he told The Star.

       Azizan said it was very difficult to predict when a flash flood would occur, but the public should try to avoid low-lying areas and those places commonly hit by flash floods.

       He also cautioned those who live near hillsides of the possibility of landslides.

       “The possibility of a landslide occurring depends on the geology of the area and the rainfall, so those who live near slopes should be wary too,” he added.

       Environment and Water Minister Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man on Tuesday warned Malaysians to be prepared for flash floods due to more thunderstorms and strong winds during the monsoon transitional phase that is ongoing until mid-May.

       The monsoon transitional phase from March 14 until May 15 signalled the end of the north-east monsoon that started on Nov 3 last year but would bring thunderstorms with heavy rains and strong winds within a short period of time, usually between one and three hours, said Tuan Ibrahim.

       Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s Centre of Tropical Geoengineering (Geotropik) director Prof Dr Edy Tonnizam Mohamad said the public should make a habit of checking the Malaysian Meteorological Department’s application myCuaca as it would alert them of the current weather in their areas including the time of expected rainfall.

       “If you are living in a flood-prone area, please prepare your personal belongings and important documents so that you can take them easily if you have to relocate.

       “Fishermen should check on the weather, if it is too harsh, they should avoid going to sea.

       “Those living in low areas, be prepared. In cases of flash floods, monitor your surroundings for any signs that water from rivers or drains might overflow. Make sure that your drains are all cleared,” he added.

       Prof Dr Edy said the public should also avoid areas that were prone to lightning such as open spaces and waiting underneath trees during a thunderstorm.