Week-long thunderstorm blues in Malaysia's northern states

KUALA LUMPUR - The erratic weather wreaking havoc in the northern states is expected to last until Sunday, with evening thunderstorms set to become a regular fixture, said the Meteorological Department.

Thunderstorms were expected to brew over Perak and Kedah, while clear skies were predicted for Penang latest by Saturday and Perlis by Friday. Strong winds were also expected in those states from today, with thunderstorms in the evening.

A department spokesman said the states had been experiencing early morning downpours last week because of the inter-monsoon period, which was known for its inconsistent weather patterns.

"Monsoon rains are usually regular but for this type of wind, it is very unpredictable as the winds continuously change direction.

"At the moment, reading of the winds show heavy rain and thunderstorms later in the day."

The Perak Department of Irrigation and Drainage told the New Straits Times that the water levels in rivers as of yesterday were normal.

A department spokesman also said Pantai Remis was one of the worst flood-affected areas.

"The upstream flash floods are moving downstream towards the sea but because of high tide, they are not able to subside.

"However, the situation is not so serious as the rain level has dropped tremendously since yesterday. Residents are recommended to take precautionary measures."

The department advised the public to stop throwing rubbish into rivers and lakes as it could block the flow of water.

In George Town, Penang, clogged drains caused floods of up to 0.5m deep and forced more than 300 families to leave their homes.