Lembah pantai: Residents of the Seri Cempaka People’s Housing Project (PPR) in Lembah Pantai are still traumatised after a thunderstorm wreaked havoc this afternoon, with some describing the wind as being as powerful as a tornado.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sharifuddin Mohd Fahmi, 35, who has lived in Block A for 15 years, said he was in the youth association’s office with four friends when heavy rain suddenly started, followed by a loud bang. He described the chaotic scene, noting the strong winds lashing the cars, lifting tents, and swaying parked motorcycles.

Another resident, Noorliyah Baharudin, 34, admitted that she still trembles remembering the moment. The mother of three recounted how she ran to her house in Block F as the storm intensified. She witnessed roof timbers falling and damaging vehicles, including her own car, which was severely damaged. Despite her relief at being safe, Noorliyah expressed concern over the financial loss and hoped for assistance from the area’s Member of Parliament.

Earlier, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, who is also the Lembah Pantai Member of Parliament, visited the area and announced initial contributions of RM5,000 to each affected family, along with basic necessities. He assured that damaged school supplies would be replaced immediately. An initial assessment revealed at least four residential units with serious damage and 30 vehicles impacted by falling roof debris. Residents of severely damaged units would be relocated to vacant units within the same block, facilitated by a youth organisation. The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is currently identifying available units to accommodate them.