Chao Phraya River communities receive warning as flooding continues nationwide

Chao Phraya River communities receive warning as flooding continues nationwide

LOEI, 24 October 2017 (NNT) – Thailand's Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has advised citizens living along the Chao Phraya River to prepare for more flooding due to increased discharges from the Chao Phraya Dam, while Loei province has reported inundation from forest run off following heavy rains. 

Run off from the Phu Luang Animal Preserve has put villages in Wang Sapung district of Loei province under 3-4 meters of water, submerging many vehicles in the area. The waters are now flowing into other communities and have prompted calls for residents to move their belongings to higher ground. 

Highway authorities in Khon Kaen province, meanwhile, have lined the sides of roads with sandbags to prevent water flowing onto highways in the area of Baan Nong Hin. Previously, water flowing across roads was obstructing traffic. 

Nonetheless, the situation remains worrisome for residents in the area, who say a rise of another 20-30 centimeters will result in their homes being flooded. 

Around Ubol Ratana reservoir, a steady influx of water has resulted in overflow into Non Sang and Sri Boon Ruang districts. A 2 kilometer stretch of road between the 2 areas has been made impassable by up to 80 centimeters of water. 

At the same time, in Uthai Thani, the Chao Phraya River has begun to rise, resulting in an increased water the level in the Sakrakrang River, which is 62 centimeters over its critical height. The province has issued a warning to communities along the banks of both rivers.

 

-- nnt 2017-10-24