Torrential Rains Cause Tragic Verandah Collapse at Kundasang Lodging House

KUNDASANG, SABAH — Continuous downpours across the highlands of Sabah led to a dramatic collapse of a lodging house verandah in Kampung Gorowot Sinisian on Tuesday afternoon, October 20, 2026. Ground conditions deteriorated following sustained rainfall, triggering a localized landslide that swept the structure downhill.

The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) received an emergency distress call at 4:08 PM. Two firefighting teams from the Ranau Fire and Rescue Station were immediately dispatched to the scene to assess structural stability and carry out emergency operations.

According to Ranau Fire Station Chief Assistant Fire Superintendent Rantey Fred, the landslide specifically targeted the villa's outer extension. "The landslide only affected the villa's veranda, and no untoward incident or injuries were reported," Rantey confirmed in an official statement.

Firefighters completed safety checks, site monitoring, and risk mitigation before officially concluding the operation at 5:14 PM.

In light of recent persistent wet weather across the Ranau and Kundasang districts, emergency authorities have urged local residents, home stay operators, and visiting tourists to remain on high alert. Rantey reminded the public to observe surrounding hillside stability closely and be prepared for sudden changes in ground conditions during heavy downpours. Local authorities continue to monitor high-risk slopes throughout the region to safeguard nearby communities.

Local civil defense personnel have begun conducting preliminary engineering assessments on the surrounding terrain to evaluate potential long-term erosion risks along the hillside. Preliminary findings suggest that soil saturation levels in the area remain dangerously high, prompting officers to advice nearby property owners to secure loose soil coverings and clear drainage channels to prevent further water accumulation.

Meanwhile, local tourism representatives have reassured visitors that while safety inspections are actively ongoing across highland accommodations, most attractions in the Kundasang region remain open. Travelers are nonetheless encouraged to check updated weather advisories regularly and contact their hosts regarding road conditions before embarking on journeys into mountainous sectors.