GEORGE TOWN – A severe storm swept through Penang on Tuesday (17 Sept) causing widespread damage and putting lives at risk. Over 200 roadside trees were uprooted, crushing cars, damaging homes, and endangering motorists. The northern region has been battered by storms since Sunday, with strong winds toppling trees onto vehicles on numerous roads.
The intense wind also whipped up the sea, leading to violent waves tearing the planks on the clan jetties off Pengkalan Weld. These historic jetties, dating back to the 1900s, are home to many people and popular tourist attractions.
Tourists have been advised to avoid visiting the clan jetties until repairs are completed, while volunteers have been dispatched to monitor and repair damaged areas.
Motorists were also advised to be vigilant, as trees fell in 90 places, damaging three houses and eight cars on Sunday alone. On Monday, fallen trees were reported in nine locations, and by noon yesterday, the number had risen to 43.
The storm also affected mainland Penang, with falling trees reported in 30 locations. Many of Penang’s roads, especially in George Town, are lined with decades-old trees, some so large that it takes three adults to encircle them.
In the Pulau Tikus suburb, 13 trees fell by 9:50 yesterday morning. The Penang Island City Council had removed 30 dangerous trees.
A resident, retiree Kenny Chuah, 63, from Pulau Tikus, told The Star that it was so terrifying driving through the storm.
He said, the rain wasn’t heavy, but the winds were so strong, causing trees on the roadside to sway precariously.
-BTS Media
