Roi et: Floodwaters broke, flooding rice fields and cutting off roads as the aftermath of Tropical Storm Nong Fa led to the collapse of a river embankment in Ban Sai Mun, Khwao Subdistrict, Selaphum District. Nearly a thousand rai of rice fields have been inundated, and access routes have been severed.
According to Thai News Agency, images depict the moment when water from the upper reaches of Phon Thong District overflowed, leading to the riverbank at Ban Sai Mun to collapse approximately 5 meters wide and 6 meters long. The breach caused floodwaters to inundate rice fields across the Khwao, Na-ngam, and Na-ngam subdistricts. Villagers and community leaders have mobilized machinery and big bags in an effort to seal the broken embankment and protect the nearly 1,000 rai of rice fields threatened by the floodwaters.
In response to the crisis, the Roi Et governor has tasked the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation with deploying heavy machinery to reinforce the compromised water barrier. A total of 280 big bags have been placed to expedite repairs. However, efforts have faced challenges despite coordination with nearby agencies to request additional support from rescue teams and lighting equipment for the ongoing repair work.
Plans for repairing the flood barriers have been adjusted to adapt to the changing situation. Despite a slight drop in the water level, strong currents have damaged several wooden posts, and sandbags used as temporary barriers have been swept away. Residents from affected villages have been mobilized to assist in the repair efforts. The strategy now involves building a water barrier using large big bags and reinforcing it with wooden or steel poles to enhance stability. Additionally, the municipality has been contacted to expedite the procurement of old electricity poles from the Provincial Electricity Authority to strengthen the barriers.
Meanwhile, in Chiang Mai Province, heavy rain on Doi Suthep has caused flash floods in the Mae Rim District. The downpour led to overflow along a stream, flooding Chotana Road for over 100 meters. Floodwaters measuring 30-50 centimeters have resulted in severe traffic congestion, prompting highway police to temporarily close the Don Kaeo Tunnel outbound to Mae Rim. Military personnel have opened a bypass within Taksin Camp to alleviate traffic, but the slow-draining water level remains a concern. Villagers suspect a diversion may have contributed to the flooding on the road, and it is anticipated that the water will take time to drain completely.