KOTA KINABALU (Mar 10): Flooding is a recurrent issue in Beaufort, Sabah, particularly due to the overflow of Sungai Padas (Sg Padas) — one of the largest and most significant rivers in the state.

Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season often leads to rising water levels, causing floods that affect local communities, transportation, and economic activities.

To mitigate risks and improve preparedness, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia (JPS Malaysia) provides an online platform known as Public InfoBanjir. This website offers real-time water level data for rivers across Malaysia, including Sg Padas.

Public InfoBanjir (https://publicinfobanjir.water.gov.my/aras-air/data-paras-air/?state=SAB&lang=en) enables public to monitor the river level of Sg Padas and the flooding conditions in Beaufort and the significance of tracking river level in real time.

How to use Public InfoBanjir to Monitor Flooding in Beaufort

To check the water level of Sg Padas in Beaufort, follow these steps:
1. Visit the Public InfoBanjir website:
https://publicinfobanjir.water.gov.my/aras-air/data-paras-air/?state=SAB&lang=en
2. Select “SABAH” as the state to view water levels in Sabah’s rivers.
3. Locate the Sg Padas monitoring stations (e.g., Beaufort, Tenom, etc.).
4. Check the current water level status (Normal, Alert, Warning, or Danger).
5. View the hydrograph to see trends over the past hours or days.
6. Use the data for planning:
• If the level is rising towards Warning or Danger, take necessary precautions.
• Authorities may issue evacuation orders if water levels reach dangerous thresholds.

With the growing risks of climate change and increasing rainfall variability, the Public InfoBanjir portal is a crucial resource for individuals, businesses, and government agencies.

By monitoring Sg Padas in real-time, people in Beaufort can:
• Take early action before floods worsen.
• Plan safer travel routes if roads are submerged.
• Protect property and belongings by moving valuables to higher
ground.
• Assist in community flood preparedness efforts.

Flooding in Beaufort remains a serious challenge, but with tools like Public InfoBanjir, communities can stay ahead of potential disasters. The ability to track Sg Padas water levels in real time provides valuable insights for early flood warnings, emergency response, and infrastructure planning.

By regularly checking https://publicinfobanjir.water.gov.my/aras-air/data-paras-air/?state=SAB&lang=en and staying informed, residents and authorities can better prepare for and mitigate flood impacts in Beaufort.