Many parts of the town are now submerged under flood waters after a heavy downpour yesterday. — Photo by Anthony Yap

MIRI (Sept 15): Long Lama town has been inundated by floods following continuous downpours in Ulu Baram and its surrounding areas, leaving most parts of the town underwater.

Penghulu Desmond Yap, when contacted by The Borneo Post today, said the flood, which began around noon on Sunday (Sept 14), has affected the entire population and caused a temporary communication blackout.

“We only managed to restore communication lines via mobile data this morning after they were cut off yesterday when the water started rising. Those with Wi-Fi might have been able to stay connected, but for most, it was a blackout. Rain was on and off yesterday and has stopped today, but the water level remains high,” he said.

Yap, who is also among those affected, said floodwaters have risen to about two feet in his home, with other residents possibly facing worse conditions.

“We anticipated the flood as water from Ulu Baram was flowing downstream. We just hope the communication lines remain intact so we can call for help. For now, all residents are stuck in their homes,” he added.

Meanwhile, Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau said the situation is being closely monitored, with no temporary evacuation centres (PPS) opened yet, though preparations have been made in case shelters are needed.

“The town has been hit by flash floods, but we have been prepared for this possibility. JPAM (Civil Defence Force) is on standby. Now that the rain has stopped, our concern shifts to Ulu Baram, where riverbanks are at risk,” he said.

“At this point, no temporary evacuation centres (PPS) have been opened yet, but we are prepared to provide shelters to those affected if necessary. The Civil Defence Force (JPAM) is also on standby,” he said, adding that he has been in constant communication with the local authority and Penghulu Desmond to keep track of the situation.

Now that the rain has stopped, Dennis expressed worry about the upper Ulu Baram areas, where the riverbanks are at risks.

He urged residents not to take unnecessary risks, particularly crossing flooded roads or rivers without bridges.

“Life is more precious. It’s better to wait for a few hours for the water to subside,” Dennis said.

He added that local communities, with the support of JPAM, have shown good preparedness, and coordination with agencies such as the Welfare Department is ongoing to ensure food and water supplies are ready for those affected.