How often does Lawas Airport face temporary closures due to floods?

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Lawas Airport Faces Recurring Flood-Related Closures

Lawas Airport is experiencing a temporary closure due to flooding, as the Lawas River overflowed its banks and submerged the runway last night. This incident follows a similar closure in March of this year, highlighting a recurring vulnerability of the airport to adverse weather conditions. The current inundation saw water levels reach three metres deep across the airport grounds, necessitating its closure for necessary cleanup operations.
Recent Flood Events Impacting Operations

The current flood event, which led to the temporary closure of Lawas Airport, was triggered by continuous heavy rainfall in the upper Lawas region. This caused the Lawas River to breach its banks, inundating the airport's runway with water approximately three metres deep. Consequently, operations have been halted to allow for essential cleanup and debris removal.
Previous March Closure and Flight Disruptions

This is not the first time Lawas Airport has been forced to cease operations due to flooding this year. In March, a similar inundation of the runway led to a three-day closure. During that period, the Rural Air Services operator, MASwings, had to cancel a total of 48 flights, affecting 426 passengers who were unable to travel as scheduled.
Broader Impact on Local Infrastructure

The impact of the heavy rainfall extends beyond the airport, affecting other local infrastructure. SK Kerangan Lawas, a local school, was also reported to have been hit by the floodwaters on the same night that the airport runway became inundated. This indicates a widespread effect of the severe weather on the Lawas area.

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How often does Lawas Airport face temporary closures due to floods?

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