KUCHING: Sarawak had its first exposure to floods yesterday when 225 residents in Ulu Mapai, Kanowit, were cut off from the town centre when water in their area rose to one metre. 

Kanowit Police Chief Assistant Superintendant Bujang Zainuddin said two longhouses were affected.

"We had to relocate 150 residents of Rumah Selungang and 98 more from Rumah Awing longhouse when the waters began rising at 8am," he said. 

All were later relocated to SK Balingiau, but by noon they returned home when the floodwaters receded. 

However, their relief was short-lived when water began rising again a few hours later. 

Kanowit District Officer Herman Ulok said the villagers then sought shelter on higher ground.

"The Welfare Department has been alerted and they are sending food rations and other assistance to the stranded villagers," said Herman.

Ulu Mapai is 10km from Kanowit town and the only road leading to the area is inundated.

Heavy rain hit the riverside town since Tuesday night, causing the Batang Rajang to swell.