Flash Floods Hit the District After Continuous Rain
Rayong, an eastern province in Thailand, has been experiencing heavy rainfall since Thursday night, with Nikhom Phatthana district suffering the worst damage. Flash floods have affected several parts of the district as local authorities, including Nikhom Phatthana Police, Nikhom Phatthana Tambon Administrative Organization (TAO), Siam Ruam Jai Rescue Foundation, and the Siam Rayong Rescue Foundation, are working together to help those in need.
Rescue workers have been trying to evacuate locals from inundated areas and move them to safer ground. Roads have been blocked by floods, with cars submerged, causing difficulties for residents.
Evacuation Efforts and Drainage Plans
Local officials have been working hard to evacuate residents and their property as weather forecasts predict an increase in precipitation. Prasong Leklong, chief of Nikhom Phatthana TAO, said that backhoe loaders would be brought in to dig temporary channels to drain floodwater from roads where over 60-70cm floods are hindering traffic.
Rayong governor, Traipob Wongtrairat, has ordered people to move their assets to top floors and be on alert for flash floods. As of 11 am on Friday, the rainwater precipitation level was at 2.06 meters, while the bank can handle a 2.5-meter water level.
Preparations for Further Flooding
District and village chiefs have been assigned to prepare for evacuation as necessary. The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) reported that the Mekong River level has risen, and the Mekong Hydrological Cycle Observation Stations in Chiang Rai, Loei, Nong Khai, and Ubon Ratchathani will see water levels increasing this week.
According to forecasting by One Map, the ONWR stated that three southern provinces — Krabi, Chumphon, and Surat Thani — are likely to see floods by the end of this month. The ONWR also warned that the south of the country could experience floods until the end of the year, recommending that people pay close attention to regular updates.
Possible Impact on Other Regions
The situation in Nikhom Phatthana serves as a reminder for other regions to prepare for possible flooding. As the rainy season continues, other areas may also face similar challenges, and it is essential to have plans in place to manage water resources and protect residents from potential dangers.