Most people have been looking forward to the 1st of February. After all, it is the Lunar New Year! However, for some residents in Ipoh, they might not be able to have a joyous celebration.
Ipoh was hit by a freak storm yesterday (30th January) around 6pm. The storm damaged hundreds of homes in Taman Tasek Damai and Kampung Tawas. It also left many devastated by both the destruction and the timing.
praying for everyone affected in ipoh😭 this is so scary 😭 pic.twitter.com/iOGKjMCdKm
— αℓια ℓєιℓαиι 🌸 (@Ohsnapitsalia) January 30, 2022
Some residents likened the incident to being hit by a “tornado”. One resident stated that it had only been drizzling, but the wind was “very strong”. The storm lifted the roofs off some houses, while others experienced their roof tiles being ripped away. Additionally, trees and electricity poles alike were felled.
Ipoh’s authorities were quick to step in and asses the situation. Ipoh Barat MP M. Kulasegaran gave a run down of the damage incurred. “The incident happened before the Lunar New Year, which (has) affected many families. Some houses are also without water and electricity,” he stated. Kulasegaran added that thankfully, no one was injured. However, roughly 400 households had been affected by the storm.
Residents have been advised to lodge police reports about the incident and get aid from the state government. Additionally, Ipoh City Councillor Albert Ho reported that the Kampung Tawas community hall has been converted into a shelter for residents who need it.
Many are devastated as the Lunar New Year is right around the corner. As some residents pointed out, most businesses would be closed in light of the celebration. Currently, authorities are doing what they can to help the situation, including restoring electricity to some houses.
Our hearts go out to those affected by the storm. We hope they get the necessary help soon.
Sources: China Press, New Straits Times
