Sapphaya: Villagers in Chainat Province are gripped by fear as the Chao Phraya River overflows into their homes, prompting them to take refuge on the roadside. Residents living at the end of the Chao Phraya Dam are particularly concerned, fearing that the dam might break under the pressure. In response to the rising water levels, many have evacuated their homes, taking their belongings with them as they seek safety on the roadside.
According to Thai News Agency, the Chao Phraya Dam has increased its water discharge to 2,300 cubic meters per second, exacerbated by continuous rainfall, leading to the river overflowing its banks in several areas of Sapphaya District. Municipalities in the region are actively working to strengthen embankments along the river in an effort to protect nearby villages from further flooding.
Residents, particularly those in single-story homes, are deeply concerned that if the dam increases its discharge to 2,500 cubic meters per second, the municipal embankments will not withstand the current and may collapse. Consequently, many villagers have decided to move their belongings to safer areas along Rural Highway 3018, known locally as Khlong Maharat Road, where they have set up temporary shelters.