Selangor Police Mobilize for Tropical Storm Senyar: 1 Dead, 49 Trees Down Amidst Heightened Alert & Aid Efforts

Selangor Police on High Alert as Tropical Storm Senyar Impacts Malaysia

Malaysia faced severe weather as Tropical Storm Senyar swept through several states, prompting Selangor police to activate their full emergency response. The storm, which made landfall just after midnight on November 28th, led to one fatality and caused 49 trees to fall, severely impacting areas like Jalan Selandar-Machap.

Selangor Police Mobilize with Maximum Alert

State police chief commissioner Shazeli Kahar confirmed that all Selangor police assets and personnel have been mobilized, bracing for anticipated heavier rainfall. Preparations were initiated the previous week, involving thorough checks on logistics, equipment, and manpower, aligning with projections from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia). Commissioner Shazeli emphasized that officers across all nine districts are maintaining maximum vigilance, with MetMalaysia updates serving as their primary reference for operational decisions.

“Since last week, Selangor police have carried out early preparedness measures involving logistics and manpower,” Datuk Shazeli stated. He highlighted the seamless cooperation with various other agencies through well-established coordination mechanisms, ensuring continuous public assistance.

Operational Readiness and Vital Community Support

Despite the challenging conditions, Selangor police reported no operational hitches, confirming all essential equipment, including rescue boats and heavy vehicles, is in optimal condition and ready for immediate deployment. A notable initiative included using police lorries to transport Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination candidates safely through flood-affected routes, demonstrating the commitment to supporting the community during difficulties.

“We understand the difficulties faced by the community and we are always ready to help,” Commissioner Shazeli affirmed, urging the public to contact police for any assistance beyond their capacity. “We are always with the community. If you need immediate assistance, call us. InsyaAllah, we will continue to help.”

Widespread Monitoring and Dam Concerns

The vigilance extends across all nine districts of Selangor, not just specific flood-prone areas, acknowledging the widespread potential impact of tropical storms. Beyond heavy rain and rising river levels, authorities are also monitoring the possibility of controlled water releases from highland areas or dams reaching full capacity. Such releases could further elevate river levels and lead to overflows, necessitating proactive measures across the board.

Storm Weakens as It Moves Eastward

MetMalaysia director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip later reported that Tropical Storm Senyar had weakened significantly after crossing the Selangor-Negri Sembilan border. It has since been downgraded to a tropical depression and is forecast to continue its eastward trajectory towards the South China Sea. Earlier advisories had warned of persistent heavy rain and strong winds along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, indicating several days of adverse weather.