Sungai Cheringin overflow triggers flash floods, 105 evacuated

Bentong residents were evacuated to a temporary relief center after flash floods triggered by heavy rain overflowed Sungai Cheringin, according to local authorities. Thirty-four children among the 105 evacuees, all from Kampung Janda Baik, sought safety in SK Janda Baik school.

The Sungai Cheringin river rapidly rose around 6pm, inundating thirty-four houses with murky, fast-moving water. Civil Defence Force officer Azizah Husain explained that the river overflowed due to heavy rain starting at 3pm, leading to the evacuation process in stages. Since the floodwaters have receded, some evacuees have returned to their homes to begin cleanup efforts today.

The Janda Baik resort association reported that about four resorts along the river suffered damage due to the flash floods. However, the resort guests were spared as they had checked out before the floodwaters entered the premises. This is the second flash flood incident in the past five years, with the prior one occurring in 2022 when Sungai Benus caused similar damage in the same settlement.