PUCHONG: As Malaysia braces for the northeast monsoon, 29 specialised rapid response teams are on standby nationwide to strengthen flood rescues, says Fire and Rescue Department director general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad.

He said these teams will focus solely on floods to minimise disruption to daily station operations.

He spoke after the National Disaster Management Agency briefing on preparations for the northeast monsoon on Thursday (October 30).

Nor Hisham said two rapid response teams from different districts were deployed during the recent floods in Kamunting, Perak.

“Although the teams are not regularly deployed interstate, it will still be done if there is a need,” he said.

He added that each team comprises about 18 personnel, adding that several operating bases are established nationwide to store flood rescue assets.

“Only the assets are stored at the bases,” he said. “If there is a forecast, the team can obtain the assets directly,” he added.

The northeast monsoon is expected to begin in November and last until March next year. The Malaysian Meteorological Department expects five to seven episodes of heavy continuous downpour.

A weak La Niña is also forecast during this period.