Rising Floodwaters on 27 November 2025 and Increasing Evacuations to SK Gual To’Deh

KG GUAL TO'DEH - Flood conditions intensified on 27 November 2025 in the rural areas surrounding SK Gual To’Deh, prompting more villagers to evacuate to the school, which continued to serve as the main temporary relief centre. Compared to the previous day, water levels rose steadily, particularly in low-lying zones such as Kg Gual To’Deh, Kg Tersang, and several neighbouring settlements near the Sungai Kolok border. Although the increase in water level was noticeable, the rise remained gradual, giving residents sufficient time to organise their belongings, safeguard essential items, and relocate in an orderly manner.

I am standing in the middle of the road facing rising floodwater. With both hands raised, you appear to be observing the situation as the water gradually advances. Reflections of trees, houses, and parked motorcycles on the flooded surface highlight the calm yet tense atmosphere.

By midday, additional families began moving into the hall and classrooms designated for emergency shelter at SK Gual To’Deh. Teachers, community leaders, and local authorities worked together to coordinate the placement of evacuees, ensuring that each family received adequate space, basic necessities, and access to clean water. The calm and structured nature of the relocation process reflected the community’s familiarity with flood management, shaped by years of recurring monsoon events in the region.

Despite the relatively manageable conditions on the Malaysian side, residents remained cautious due to the worsening situation across the border in southern Thailand. Reports from Hatyai, Sungai Kolok, and several districts in Narathiwat indicated severe flooding that surpassed the intensity of previous monsoon seasons. Rapid river overflow, blocked drainage systems, and prolonged heavy rainfall contributed to large-scale displacement in those areas, raising concerns that similar conditions could develop in northern Kelantan if rainfall persisted.

Meteorological observations attributed the ongoing flooding to intensified Northeast Monsoon activity, which typically brings heavy, continuous rainfall from late November through the early months of the following year. In recent seasons, climate variability has increased the frequency of extreme rainfall events, often causing rivers to swell quickly and flood-prone areas to experience early flooding. For communities near major river systems like Sungai Kolok, the risk is further compounded by rainfall patterns occurring in upstream regions of Thailand, where water flow can directly influence downstream levels on the Malaysian side.

On 27 November, villagers monitoring the riverbanks observed a gradual but persistent rise in the water level. Although the flow remained slower compared to the major floods in Thailand, the trend signalled that precautionary measures were necessary. Emergency response teams remained on standby, and updates on weather conditions were communicated frequently to ensure residents stayed informed. The sense of vigilance was evident, yet the atmosphere within the evacuation centre remained calm as families settled in, children received support from teachers, and volunteers distributed meals and essential supplies.

As the monsoon season continued, the community’s resilience and preparedness played a crucial role in managing the unfolding situation. While the flooding had not reached critical levels, the widespread damage reported in southern Thailand served as a stark reminder of the monsoon’s unpredictability. The events of 27 November reinforced the importance of sustained monitoring, community cooperation, and proactive planning as the region navigated the challenges posed by the annual monsoon cycle.

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