More areas in the northern provinces of Lampang and Sukhothai are now flooded. Residents have been moving their belongings to higher ground and are avoiding flooded routes as advised.
In Lampang, especially high water levels were seen in the Na Saeng sub-district of Koh Ka district. Due to the overflow of the Wang River, the floodwater has reached the Eastern Ban Na Kaew Bridge, the main route across the river to Serm Ngam district, resulting in transport difficulties.
People have decided, however, to remain in their houses, because they are worried about their homes and belongings. They have been seen wading through floodwater to receive food and water supplies from volunteers.
Lampang governor Chatchawan Chayabutra said that the water in the Kiew Kho Ma reservoir in Wang Nuea district has been released, since September 24th, at a rate of 250m³/s to reduce pressure on the dam and embankments.
The water in the Kiew Lom reservoir will be drained at a rate of 320-375m³/s, which will soon affect the low-lying areas in the Mueang district of Lampang province.
He added that the flooding could affect people in many areas of Jae Hom district, including Wichet Nakorn, Pong Don, Jae Hom and Ban Sa sub-districts. Therefore, people living near the Wang River are advised to move their belongings to higher ground and to be prepared for further flooding.
Meanwhile, Sukhothai has been affected by the breakage of the barrier in the Yom River at 7:30pm on September 24th. The water floodwater was 50-80cm deep at Srisangworn Temple and school.
Officials suspended the use of Jarotwiteetong Road in Sawankhalok district due to flooding, and people were advised to use highway 1195 instead.
More than 100 households in the area rushed to move themselves and their belongings to a safe place, as the floodwater reached a depth of 1.5 meters in some areas.
Sukhothai governor Suchat Teekasuk has coordinated with disaster units to assist in the rescue of affected people.
The floodwater is expected to continue rising, the governor said.
