200 families hit by 'most severe floods' (Updated)

NIBONG TEBAL: Some 200 families were affected when what is said to be the most severe flood hit South Seberang Prai last night.
Speaking to reporters after visiting affected families and pig farm breeders at Jalan Kebun, Jawi Village today, Penang Welfare, Caring Society and Environment exco Phee Boon Poh said he was told by the residents that the flood on Saturday was the most severe since the previous one 38 years ago.
Phee said the state government had decided to evacuate 20 households which were most affected, consisting of 88 people, to a relief centre at the Jawi Multipurpose Hall at 7pm after their village was hit by the flood.
"Up to 7pm today, three families, which are 17 individuals, have been allowed to return to their houses while there are still 17 families with 71 victims staying in the relief centre.
"The evacuees are from Kampung Sungai Baung, Lima, Sethu, Titi Hitam, Pengkalan, Masjid Baru, Permatang Ara, Pulau, Taman Sungai Duri Permai and Taman Sungai Duri Indah.
"The water level increased by between four to six feet and the disaster also affected three pig farms and one furniture factory in Jalan Kebun, Jawi Village here," he said.
Phee added the state government would be collecting all information and reports to come up with a solution to assist the flood victims.
He said the cost of damage is under investigation as they were compiling the report.
Phee said a meeting would be held by next week to discuss how to assist the disaster victims.