Tawau has been declared a disaster zone after heavy rainfall caused flooding in several areas across the district since late Friday night.
The Tawau Natural Disaster Committee made the declaration at 8.30am on Saturday as authorities warned that water levels could continue rising due to persistent rain.
Although no evacuation centres have been activated so far, emergency agencies including the Civil Defence Force and Fire and Rescue Department are currently monitoring affected areas and responding to calls for assistance.
Some residents have started moving to safer locations, including nearby mosques and relatives’ homes, after floodwaters entered their houses.
Among the affected areas are Tanjung Batu Keramat, Taman Ria 1, Taman Hot Spring, Taman Sunshu and Taman Sri Balung residential areas.
Reports stated that around 48 villagers affected by the floods have temporarily sought shelter at a nearby mosque while waiting for the situation to improve.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has forecast thunderstorms in Tawau until noon on Saturday, with authorities continuing to monitor weather conditions and flood risks.
