KUCHING: The State Disaster Management Committee has readied a total of 622 evacuation centres throughout the state, in preparation for the northeast monsoon from November to March next year that is expected to bring extensive rain to central and western Sarawak.

According to a press statement following a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah yesterday, there are 139 centres with  total capacity of 31,280 persons in Kuching, and 36 centres in Samarahan with the capacity of 12,250 persons.

During the northeast monsoon, rainfall for up to three consecutive days can result in floods in low-lying and flood-prone areas. If heavy rainfall occurs simultaneously with high tide, the risk of a flood will be even worse.

According to weather forecast,  Bintulu and Miri are expected to receive rainfall of between 300mm and 500 mm in November and December, while Sri Aman, Sarikei, Mukah and Sibu divisions are expected receive rainfall of between 400mm and 550mm in December and January. In January and February, Kuching, Samarahan and Serian divisions are expected to receive a high amount rainfall of between 400mm and 800mm.

The Welfare Department also provides forward base in 16 areas: Kuching (2), Kapit (4), Bintulu (3), and Miri (7).