Elderly Man Escapes Ceiling Collapse During Hailstorm in Chukai*

CHUKAI, Oct 25 — Abdullah Zawawi Che Yaacob, 63, narrowly avoided disaster when his ceiling collapsed at home in Kampung Gong Pauh during a hailstorm yesterday.

The incident occurred around 4 PM while Abdullah and his wife, Wan Kharzimi Wan Abdul Manan, 57, were watching TV with their three children. After heavy rain and strong winds began, they quickly moved to a safer part of the house. Abdullah recalled seeing a dense white whirlwind outside just before dust began to fall on him. His wife swiftly pulled him out of harm’s way just as the plaster ceiling came crashing down.

The collapse caused an estimated RM50,000 in damages, affecting the roof, electrical wiring, and pipes, and even shattering the windshield of his car from flying debris. 

Although some areas of their home are still livable, the family has decided to stay at a homestay for safety until repairs can be made. Abdullah described the frightening event as lasting only a few minutes but resulting in extensive damage.