ALOR SETAR: Six districts in Kedah have been identified as being at risk of flash floods during the ongoing transition from the Northeast Monsoon to the Southwest Monsoon.

Kedah Civil Defence Force director Lt Col Zairil Anuar Zulmuji said the transition phase, expected to last until May, brings thunderstorms and heavy rain, increasing the likelihood of fallen trees and flash floods.

Zairil added that 990 personnel are on standby around the clock to handle emergencies.

Monitoring efforts have also been intensified in flood and storm-prone areas across the six districts.

“To ensure readiness, we have restricted leave for our personnel, and all necessary equipment is prepared for immediate use should any untoward incidents occur,” he said, Bernama reported.

The monsoon transition phase, which began on Nov 5, 2024, signals the end of the Northeast Monsoon 2024/25.

During this period, the country experiences light winds from various directions, leading to the formation of storm clouds and rain, particularly in the western parts of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.