Unprecedented Flash Floods Sweep Northern Singapore: Is Climate Change to Blame?

SINGAPORE: Northern Singapore experienced a staggering amount of rainfall on Friday, November 22, with totals reaching nearly half of the average monthly rainfall for November. This marked one of the most significant daily rainfall events in over 45 years, leaving residents in shock and authorities scrambling for solutions.

The national water agency, PUB, reported that two flash floods struck at Wan Tho Avenue in the Potong Pasir area and Yishun Avenue 7 on that fateful afternoon. Fortunately, both incidents were resolved quickly—within just 10 minutes—thanks to the prompt actions of PUB's Quick Response Team, which assisted motorists affected by the floods.

In anticipation of more heavy rain, flood risk warnings were issued for 19 locations across the region, including Lor Gambir, Mt Vernon Road, and Bedok Avenue 4. The most intense rainfall peaked with an impressive 127.7mm recorded between 2:15 PM and 4:50 PM, equating to an astonishing 51 percent of the total expected for the month. This rainfall event places Singapore in the top 1 percent of maximum daily rainfall records since 1978.

The flash floods this month are part of a concerning trend, as similar events have been increasing during Singapore's monsoon season. Just last Saturday, Bukit Timah Road experienced a surge of water from heavy downpours, and the day after, a separate flash flood occurred near Ophir Road by Bugis.

In light of the shifting weather patterns, PUB has warned that the onset of the northeast monsoon will bring more moderate to heavy showers most afternoons. These sudden deluges can overwhelm existing infrastructure, leading to localized flash floods that typically dissipate within an hour.

Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have brought the topic of climate change into the spotlight in Singapore. Experts warn that this may lead to an increase in such extreme weather events. As investigations into the causes for the recent downpours continue, residents are encouraged to stay updated via the MyENV app and PUB Flood Alerts Telegram Channel to receive real-time notifications regarding heavy rain and flood risks.

Residents are left wondering: Is this a new normal characterized by extreme weather events? How prepared is Singapore for these unpredictable floods? Is climate change a hidden culprit behind the turmoil? Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story.