GEORGE TOWN: About 200 residents in Sungai Pinang were impacted by floods triggered by torrential rain, as rising waters swiftly inundated their homes early today.

Some of the residents in the neighbourhood were forced to seek shelter in the upper floors of their homes with the assistance of the Civil Defence Force (APM).

Photos shared by local authorities showed knee-high waters inside their low-lying homes and rescue officials assisting the sick and elderly to a higher place.

Residents also tried to save their belongings by placing items on tables and moving their motorcycles to a safe location.

The affected areas include Jalan P. Ramlee and Kampung Masjid.

These locations have historically experienced flooding due to heavy downpours, making residents particularly vulnerable when it rains continuously.

Meanwhile, a resident of Jalan P. Ramlee, Saiful Hazri, 39, said he realised his home was flooded after being contacted by a neighbour.

He said that he, along with six other family members, including elderly individuals, moved their car to higher ground.

"However, two motorcycles couldn't be saved because the water rose so quickly, reaching waist level," he said.

The Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) had issued a thunderstorm warning at 11.45pm yesterday.

A spokesman said checks by the northeast district APM team at 1.40am showed floodwaters had risen and entered several homes in the area.

"Our team assisted residents by relocating them to higher ground within their homes and helping move personal belongings and public vehicles to safer locations.

"As of 3am, the rain had subsided, and floodwaters were reported to be receding," he said.

No temporary evacuation centre (PPS) was opened, and no injuries have been recorded.

Meanwhile, Northeast District APM Warrant Officer II, Sergeant Major II Muhamad Haidzir Abai Zulkifli Abai, said they received information from the public at 1.35am regarding victims in several affected homes on Jalan P. Ramlee.

Upon arriving at the location with five other members, they found that the water level had already risen to around knee height.

"We located a house occupied by individuals with disabilities and senior citizens before moving them to the upper floor for safety," he said today.

Surrounding areas such as Lorong Kampar, Kampung Dodol, Jalan Perak, Jalan Terengganu, and Jalan Anson were also flooded.