Bangkok: The Meteorological Department has issued a warning to the lower northern provinces of Thailand, urging them to remain vigilant against potential flooding and inundation. Despite the weakening of Tropical Storm Nong Fa, concerns persist regarding the impact of accumulated rainfall in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Somkuan Tonjan, Director of the Meteorological Department's Weather Forecasting Division, stated that although Tropical Storm Nong Fa has diminished into a low-pressure area, it is expected to bring continuous rainfall for the next one to two days. The rainfall, although not heavy, poses a risk in areas where the soil is already saturated from previous downpours, particularly in the provinces of Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Phetchabun, Phichit, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, and Phayao. These regions are at risk of flash floods and landslides.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) convened a meeting to evaluate the situation and subsequently issued a Cell Broadcast warning this morning to four provinces, namely Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sukhothai, and Loei. Residents in specific districts, including Noen Maprang, Nakhon Thai, and Wang Thong in Phitsanulok, as well as Lom Kao, Nam Nao, and Lom Sak in Phetchabun, have been advised to move their belongings to higher ground and take precautionary measures to protect vulnerable groups.
The warning also advises the use of local and regional mechanisms to alert the public and closely monitor the situation. In the event of potential threats to public safety, residents are advised to evacuate to shelters or safe areas without delay. Emergency equipment is being readied, flood barriers are being installed, and efforts are being made to maintain public utilities in economic zones, hospitals, and communities.
As of August 24th, flooding persists in four provinces: Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Sukhothai, and Phitsanulok. These floods have affected eight districts, 23 subdistricts, and 71 villages, impacting a total of 2,686 households and 5,450 people. The DDPM continues to provide necessary assistance to affected residents in these areas.