Floods and Wildlife: A Tale of Unlikely Encounters
Village in Awe of 3m-Long Crocodile
Villagers in Tumpat, Kelantan, were left startled when a 3m-long crocodile was spotted in a padi field in Kampung Nechang yesterday, following recent monsoon floods. The field, a popular fishing spot, is believed to have been the animal’s home for some time, with many residents claiming to have seen it swimming in the nearby Sungai Nechang.
Residents’ Reaction
Resident Mohd Azam Jusoh, 35, said, "Many villagers came out to see the animal. We are worried that if the crocodile doesn’t leave the padi field, it might swim towards the houses if flooding occurs again." Many residents took the opportunity to take photos and record videos of the crocodile, mesmerised by the rare sighting.
Flood Alerts and Relief Efforts
Meanwhile, the drainage and irrigation department has issued an alert for 27 villages and a town within a 5km radius of the Golok river in Pasir Mas, Tanah Merah, and Jeli districts, anticipating flooding due to continuous heavy rain from Monday to Wednesday.
Flood Relief Updates
The last flood relief centre in Perak was closed this evening, while 11 people remain at an evacuation centre in Pahang and 36 people in Johor. A relief centre in Bera was closed, while a centre in Maran remains open. Weather forecasts indicate clear skies in most areas of Johor, with Kota Tinggi and Kulai expected to be cloudy, and Segamat forecast to experience rain.
Conclusion
The unexpected encounter between humans and wildlife serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our natural world. As we navigate the challenges posed by climate change, it is crucial that we prioritise coexistence with the creatures that call our planet home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where did the crocodile come from?
The crocodile is believed to have come from Sungai Nechang. - What is the current situation with flood relief efforts?
The last flood relief centre in Perak was closed, with 11 people remaining at an evacuation centre in Pahang and 36 people in Johor. - What is the weather forecast for Johor?
Weather forecasts indicate clear skies in most areas, with Kota Tinggi and Kulai expected to be cloudy, and Segamat forecast to experience rain.