A senior citizen endured a frightening ordeal after strong winds tore off the roof of her home during a storm in Kulai, leaving several houses damaged and residents scrambling for safety.
Rosnah Sarkawi, 62, from Block 4 Flat Temenggong, said the incident happened around 5pm while she was preparing ingredients for her small business when she suddenly heard a loud bang followed by cracks appearing on her living room ceiling, before rainwater began pouring into the house.
She said between four and five sections of the roof were blown away by the powerful winds, exposing both the living room and bedroom to heavy rain.
Being alone at the time, she was unable to save her belongings, which were soaked and damaged by the sudden downpour.
Rosnah also described seeing what appeared to be a swirling wind formation, with some residents claiming they spotted a possible tornado-like phenomenon moving above the housing area.
The storm, which lasted about 10 to 15 minutes, forced her to immediately switch off the electricity supply due to fears of a short circuit, while neighbours also remained indoors as the strong winds made it unsafe to go outside.
Furniture including beds, mattresses and living room items were damaged, with losses estimated at over RM3,000. She has since moved to her daughter’s nearby home as her flat is no longer livable, and she has also lost her source of income as she is unable to continue her small business.
Senai State Assemblyman Wong Bor Yang said a total of six families were affected in the incident, with roof debris also crashing onto around 10 parked vehicles, causing further damage.
He added that Kulai Member of Parliament Teo Nie Ching visited the affected area together with local authorities to distribute immediate assistance to victims.
Local council authorities are currently arranging temporary accommodation for displaced families, while repair and recovery efforts will be coordinated with the district office to restore safety in the affected area.
