I called my cousin in Pulau Betong to check if they were really all right. Yes, they are, thankfully. Her son had assured me yesterday that they were all safe. She related to me about a pregnant woman who drowned while she was bathing and got swept out to sea by the waves. The fish landing there where fishermen traded the catch of the day was completely ravaged and the area submerged under 1.5 meters of water at the peak of the disaster. Her house which was further inland was spared but her in-law?s house was flooded by 30cm of sea water that rushed in and overwhelmed the estuary (Kuala Pulau Betong) and overflowed the river banks (Sungai Pulau Betong). Both sides of Kuala Pulau Betong are swathed by mangrove swamps. A little further in, nipah palms and rickety wooden jetties dot the river where fishing boats are moored.
Peter, I am really sorry to hear of how this is affecting you and the people you know personally. I pray for your safety and the safety of the people in Penang. Please, if it’s not safe, move out of your apartment till this event subsides.
Marita,
Thank you again for your concern. I am truly relieved that my cousin and her family are safe.