Flash floods hit the Bukit Timah area on Sunday, 29 December 2024, after heavy rainfall pummelled Singapore. The severity of the downpour left cars partially submerged and prompted flood alerts across nearly 20 locations.
Rainfall Records and Immediate Impact
According to the Public Utilities Board (PUB), a staggering 134.6mm of rain fell between 3.15pm and 5.25pm, accounting for 41 per cent of Singapore’s average monthly rainfall for December. This volume of rain is categorised within the top 1 per cent of maximum daily rainfall records since 1978.
Areas Affected
- Dunearn Road
- Bukit Timah Road near King Albert Park
- Toa Payoh
- Choa Chu Kang
- Chinatown
Many residents, like Zhang, expressed their dismay at the situation. “The flooding today is particularly severe,” he mentioned. In previous instances, the water only reached his ankles, but this time it was waist-deep—”high enough to kayak!”
PUB’s Response to Emergencies
The PUB deployed Quick Response Teams ahead of the rain to manage traffic and close off affected lanes. Fortunately, the flooding subsided within 20 minutes, although the disruptions left a significant impact on the community.
Future Measures for Flood Prevention
The Bukit Timah area has long struggled with flooding issues. PUB has been proactive in introducing drainage improvements over the past decade, including ongoing work to widen and deepen a 900-metre stretch of the Bukit Timah Canal, expected to be completed by 2026.
As the northeast monsoon continues, residents are reminded to stay informed through the MyENV app and PUB’s Flood Alerts Telegram channel to receive real-time updates and avoid flood-prone areas.