BANGKOK, August 13 – Flooding triggered by heavy rainfall hit several parts of the country during the long holiday weekend as the meteorological department
warns of possible flash flood in the northern and eastern provinces.

The second round of flood triggered forest torrent from Suthep Mountain in the northern province of Chiang Mai, causing swollen waterways and flooding roads including Chotetana road in front of the Chiang Mai government center.

Traffic has been disrupted as floodwaters are as deep as one metre in some areas.

Flash flood runoff from Doi Suthep national park flowed into a village in Hang Dong district. Officials helped villagers evacuate and move their belongings to higher ground.

In the northern province of Phichit, guards take turns to keep watch for flash floods around the clock after heavy rainfall in the Phetchabun mountain range caused large-scale runoff in many areas. Local authorities checked the rapidly rising water level in canals taking water from the mountain range. 

Local residents were warned to be alert and to keep monitoring the water situation closely.

In the southern province of Ranong, nonstop overnight rain triggered landslides. Mud, rocks and trees were dragged down, blocking a major road to Ranong’s provincial seat.

In the upper southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan, a bus carrying 43 soldiers from the southern border provinces to Surasri military camp in Kanchanaburi swerved and hit a roadside electric power pole. The accident occurred during heavy rain.

Seven soldiers were injured with two of them in critical condition.

The meteorological department reported a strong southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, the Gulf of Thailand, and the Thai mainland, causing torrential rain and isolated heavy falls over the country.

Residents of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phare, Uttaradit, Tak, Phetchabun, Loei, Chanthaburi and Trat are warned of flash floods during the weekend.

Tourists in Khao Khitchakut National Park in the eastern province of Chantaburi are warned of flash floods after several waterfalls are murky and flow swiftly. If the water level rises or there are indications of a flood hazard, the authorities will inform tourists to evacuate the area immediately. (MCOT online news)