Malaysia’s Meteorological Department warned us in late September that heavy rains were upon us, and if yesterday’s downpour were anything to go by, we should be heeding their cautions seriously.
Yesterday, in Rawang, just 20km north of Kuala Lumpur, several cars found themselves stuck in rising flood waters, a giant, stranded pick-up truck among them.
Yes, your personal nightmare could become a reality anytime between today, all the way through November.
Weather systems will hit the west coast states and interior states mostly, along with western Sabah, and central Sarawak.
Found yourself in a car, in heavy rain? First thing’s first: Don’t drive through a flooded road, or bridge. Even if it seems like a few centimeters, dangerous circumstances could lurk underneath.
Too late and found yourself stuck inside a flooded car? Get out immediately, and move to higher ground. Swept away in a flooded car? Don’t panic! Wait for it to fill with water, take a deep breath, open the door an swim to the surface. Move over obstacles, not under them, and if you manage to grab hold of a tree — don’t try to swim away: Wait for rescue.
Phew.
And for those of us dealing with a car that got stuck in high waters, remember NOT to turn the engine on — you could be making the situation worse. Call a tow, and get your car out of the flood as soon as possible to minimize water damage and corrosion. Let it dry out, and check your oil for water droplets to see if it’s been contaminated. You’ll probably also want to call a mechanic about now, and try not to cry when you get that bill.
Stay safe, everyone.
