Penang hit by flash floods

GEORGE TOWN - Extended intermittent showers wreaked havoc in Penang yesterday, causing flash floods and damages to properties in several low-lying areas.

The rain which started just past midnight also caused traffic to come to a standstill on major roads and streets, especially during the morning rush hour.

Thousands of people were caught in a bumper-to-bumper crawl en route to work.

A five-vehicle pile-up on Lebuhraya Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu, triggered traffic congestion along the expressway, while slippery conditions on Jalan Paya Terubong and Relau roads caused several motorcycles to skid.

Meanwhile rainwater gushed down hilly roads at several locations in Tanjung Bungah and Bayan Baru as the shower turned heavier at times.

Checks at several flooded areas showed water at knee level.

Among the affected roads, mostly in the Sungai Pinang area, were Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Terengganu, Jalan Trusan, Jalan Che Rose and Jalan Osman Bin Kadir Lit.

Jalan Masjid Negeri, the busiest road in the city, was also flooded.

Penang is bracing itself for a wet weekend as the state Meteorological Department had forecasted more rain over the next few days.