The Sumatra squall that made landfall in Singapore on the evening of 17 September felled trees across the island, affecting areas such as the National University of Singapore, Mount Faber Park, Jalan Kayu, and East Coast Park. This forced passers-by to take detours and navigate around the fallen debris.
Background
The Sumatra squall, a line of thunderstorms that typically brings heavy rain and strong winds, caused significant disruptions across Singapore. The storm’s intensity led to numerous trees being uprooted, creating hazardous conditions for both pedestrians and drivers. The incident at Straits Boulevard is one of many that highlight the challenges faced during the storm.
Car drives through fallen tree at Straits Boulevard
One driver, undeterred by the chaos, was captured on video driving through a fallen tree at Straits Boulevard towards Maxwell Road. The video, uploaded to the Facebook group ROADS.sg, shows the car inching forward through the tree’s canopy while the occupants laugh nervously. A woman can be heard exclaiming, “Oh my gosh. How am I going to go through?” as the car approaches the tree. A man then advises her to turn off the wipers as leaves and branches brush against the windscreen, accompanied by the squeaking sounds of the wipers’ rubber. The video ends with the car successfully clearing the canopy.
Taking a risk
The video elicited mixed reactions from Facebook users, with many expressing amazement and criticism. Some were surprised at the driver’s willingness to take such a risk, while others pointed out the potential dangers, such as the possibility of hitting a hidden vehicle under the canopy or on the other side of the tree. The storm’s impact was further highlighted by another incident where a tree near Syed Alwi Street in Jalan Besar landed on top of a car.
Trees cleared by good samaritans in other areas
In other parts of Singapore, good samaritans took it upon themselves to clear fallen trees and debris. These acts of community spirit helped to restore some normalcy amidst the chaos caused by the storm. Volunteers and local residents worked together to ensure that roads and pathways were passable, demonstrating resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity.
How long did the storm last?
The storm, characterised by blinding rain and dangerous lightning, lasted for several hours. Squall lines can produce extreme rainfall rates of an inch or more per hour, significantly reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions. The heavy rain and strong winds during the 17 September squall were no exception, leading to widespread disruptions and damage across the island.
Future implications
The events of 17 September serve as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by severe weather conditions. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the frequency and intensity of such storms may increase. It is crucial for both authorities and residents to be prepared for future incidents, ensuring that safety measures are in place to mitigate the impact of severe weather. This includes maintaining infrastructure, improving early warning systems, and fostering community resilience to better handle such events.
