The Fire and Rescue Department is on high alert as tropical storm Pabuk threatens the east coast states of Terengganu, Kelantan, and Pahang.

In a statement today, the department said it had directed its senior officers at its Putrajaya headquarters to be on 24-hour standby from Jan 2 to Jan 4 to monitor its operations throughout the storm and to manage any emergency that arose.

The department also said that it had issued a directive to ensure the readiness of its personnel and assets in all states, and to have it strategically placed to ensure a swift deployment in the event of an emergency.

In addition, the department said it has directed fire stations to patrol coastal areas to ensure the public’s safety and a prompt response.

“The three states affected by the storm, namely Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan, have taken action as directed by the Fire Department headquarters by conducting patrols and advising members of the public on beaches about the dangers of the storm,” it said.

The statement followed a storm warning by the Meteorological Department, which forecast wind speeds up to 40 kilometres per hour in Kelantan and Terengganu, and up to 60 kilometres in surrounding waters, along with waves as high as 4.5 metres.

“Such speeds can cause structural damage to buildings, especially in coastal areas, risk of falling trees, and flash floods in the affected areas,” it said.

The affected areas include Jajahan Tumbat, Kota Bahru, Pasir Puteh, Pasir Mas, Machang, Tanah Merah, Jeli, and Kuala Krai in Kelantan.

In Terengganu, meanwhile, the affected areas are Besut, Setiu, Kuala Nerus, Hulu Terengganu, Kuala Terengganu, and Marang.

Yesterday, Bernama reported that residents in at-risk areas were being prepared for evacuation, while Petronas said its emergency response teams are also on alert.