Melaka: The Melaka Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has identified 106 locations across the state that are prone to flooding, in anticipation of the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) set to commence this Thursday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the department's director, Mohd Zaidi Ma'at, revealed that the identification was carried out in collaboration with the Melaka Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS). The hotspots include 53 sites in Melaka Tengah, 27 in Alor Gajah, and 26 in Jasin. These areas are known to frequently experience flooding during the MTL. JPS will conduct regular monitoring and issue early warnings to ensure residents can evacuate safely.

JBPM Melaka has made comprehensive preparations for the MTL, including assets, logistics, personnel, and training. Firefighters will be actively engaged to ensure an effective response to potential flooding. Mohd Zaidi highlighted that about 500 firefighters and officers from various units are on standby for deployment during the monsoon season.

In addition to the regular teams, volunteer and community fire brigades across the state are prepared to offer early responses to any disaster in their areas. Melaka JBPM has also formed a Rapid Deployment Team to enhance responses to floods and other emergencies during the MTL. This team, consisting of 15 members from three units, is on 24-hour standby with necessary assets and logistics.

The Rapid Deployment Team is tasked with ensuring a swift response, particularly if assistance is required in neighboring states like Johor. The team is expected to reach any flood or disaster site within three hours.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department recently announced that the 2025/2026 Northeast Monsoon would begin this Thursday, with predictions of five to seven episodes of continuous heavy rain extending until March next year.