GEORGETOWN: Penangites both on the island and mainland were caught in floods over the last few days – and they can expect more wet days until next month.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department has warned of thunderstorms potentially causing flash floods during the monsoon transition period from March 25 to May.

The transition marks the end of the 2024/2025 northeast monsoon, which began last November.

During this phase, the country will experience light and variable winds from various directions that could lead to the formation of thunderstorm clouds.

The thunderstorms are typically short but intense, often bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds, especially in the evenings and early nights in most areas in the west and interior of the peninsula, as well as western Sabah and Sarawak.

Yesterday, heavy rainfall and high tides triggered flash floods across several low-lying areas in the state, with water surging into homes around midnight.

Overflowing drains quickly led to submerged streets and flooded porches within an hour. Retiree Ooi Kim Leng, 70, from Taman Siakap in Seberang Jaya, said he had little time to act.

“I couldn’t sleep as water levels in the drain and on the road rose rapidly since it started raining at about midnight.

“By 3am, the front and back of my house were flooded, and wooden furniture was damaged.”

His neighbour Mohd Tahar Abdullah, 78, who has lived in the area for nearly 40 years, said residents there are “tired” as they have suffered the floods for so many years.

Padang Lalang assemblyman Daniel Gooi said several flood mitigation projects are underway. “Among the solutions is the Jalan Tembikai flood mitigation project, which will be implemented by the Seberang Perai City Council.

“Temporary riverbank reinforcement has already been carried out along Jalan Bukit Minyak by the Penang Irrigation and Drainage Department,” he said.