A Sudden Deluge Unleashes Chaos

In an unexpected twist of weather, Singapore experienced a torrential rainstorm on the afternoon of April 13, leading to flash floods in three major areas of the north-east: Yishun Avenue 7, a portion of the KPE (slip road to Buangkok East Drive), and Punggol Way (slip road to TPE).

Quick Recap: Floods Subsided Fast

Thanks to the rapid response of the national water agency, PUB, the flooding was short-lived, with water levels receding within an hour by 3 PM. The heavy downpour, which saw rainfall reaching a staggering 114mm from 12:55 PM to 2:45 PM, accounted for a whopping 47% of Singapore’s average monthly rainfall for April, placing it among the top 2% of daily rainfall records since 1978.

Alert Systems Activated

Before the rains wreaked havoc, PUB had already issued flash flood risk alerts for 13 locations, including areas like Punggol, Yishun, Toa Payoh, and Bukit Timah due to swelling drainage systems. These concerns were communicated through a timely post on its X account, warning residents of the impending weather from 1:30 PM to 3 PM.

Witness Accounts: Surreal Scenes

One local, identified only as Mr. Ong, found himself navigating the unexpected flood while driving his family home from a prayer session around 2:30 PM. As he approached Buangkok Drive, the floodwaters began rising alarmingly fast. Making a quick decision, he turned around to seek safer ground.

Social Media Buzz: Moments Captured

The flooding phenomenon didn't go unnoticed on social media. Users flooded platforms with dramatic images and videos showcasing the deluge across the island. Mr. Mohd Hakim Musa recalled seeing a waterlogged carpark in Chong Pang for the first time in his 12 years of living there, echoing nostalgia from his childhood days of splashing in the rain.

Visibility Issues on the Roads

Facebook user Tracy Lim shared her struggle with visibility while driving along the TPE, stating that the rain heavily impacted her commute. Similarly, TikTok user Sure Bo posted a video of flooded walkways in Yishun, sparking varied reactions, including one comment urging gratitude for Singapore's safety despite the weather interruptions.

What's Next for Singapore's Weather?

The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) had forecasted the possibility of moderate to heavy showers throughout April, indicating that the first half of the month could see above-average rainfall across the island. With temperatures likely soaring between 33°C and 34°C—potentially hitting 35°C on warmer days—Singaporeans should brace for more unpredictable weather ahead.