Tidal waves strike Penang coastline

Roaring waves struck the Penang coastline on Monday, as continuous strong winds caused by the inter-monsoon season are expected to hit the West Coast until next week.

Tidal waves as high as 2 to 3.5 metres lashed the Gurney Drive and Padang Kota Lama areas, drenching the walkways with sea water.

Meanwhile, rough seas and waves reportedly swept away fishing nets and damaged two fishing boats at Pantai Bersih.

The Weather Forecast Centre of the Meteorological Department said the waves were brought on by strong west-southwestern winds with a force of 40km to 50km per hour, causing high waves over the waters off Perlis, Kedah, Penang, Miri, Sabah and Labuan.

Its director, Muhammad Helmi Abdullah, said the sea was rough and advised fishermen against going out to sea.

The situation was expected to persist until June 15.

Directives had been issued to fishermen in the northern states of Perlis and Kedah to remain onshore until the situation improved.