There have been regular floods in East Malaysia and Southern Thailand during the end of December, due to the north-east monsoon season. In 2014, the worst-flooding in decades hit the east coast peninsular of Malaysia, which completely paralyzed local transportation, especially in Kelantan and Terengganu states; resulting in dozens of casualties, and huge property losses.
The rainy season experienced in Malaysia and Thailand increases the risk of landslides, that can result in fatal disruptions to travelers.
While locals are often well-informed by authorities about the perils of flooding, travelers could encounter difficulties in obtaining the latest information. Often, due to language barriers or limited access to local news reports.
With SAFEY, a travel safety app, this is no longer an issue, as travelers are being provided with real-time alerts, based on their location. SAFEY provides the right information to travelers during an emergency.
During the latest floods that hit the east coast Malaysia and Southern Thailand, SAFEY sent out 10 alerts for those travelling in Malaysia and five alerts in southern Thailand. The first alert in Malaysia was sent out on December 30th, warning travelers of high tides on the east coast, and possible flooding, particularly in coastal areas.
More updates were sent afterwards as the flood crisis peaked in Kelantan and Terengganu, as well as in nine provinces in neighboring Thailand on New Year’s Day. Those updates contained real-time information about which areas to avoid, bus and intercity train service cancellations, and road closures.
Not only that, SAFEY also provided information to travelers that highlighted the states in Malaysia that were under flood watch by local authorities. This information was provided months prior to the floods in December, giving travelers time to make early preparations or revise their travel plans.
Floods can occur rapidly and during a flood you should:
- Move immediately to higher ground, if there is a sign of flash flooding. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas prone to flash flooding.
- Do not walk through moving water. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Do not drive into flooded areas.