Chiang mai: The influence of Tropical Storm "Dolphin" has brought heavy rainfall across Thailand, although the storm did not directly enter the country. According to Thai News Agency, the persistent downpour has raised concerns of flash flooding in multiple regions. In Chiang Mai, the water level of the Ping River remains high, causing flooding in low-lying areas, including local restaurants and elephant camps.
Continuous rainfall has resulted in tributaries such as the Mae Taeng and Mae Rim rivers carrying debris like logs and stumps into the Mae Ping River. This morning, the water level at point P1 near the Nawarat Bridge was recorded at 2.20 meters. While this is below the bank, the rising levels have led to flooding at restaurants near the Chansom Bridge and the Wat Ket community. Residents have been forced to move belongings to safety, with some items left submerged. The provincial irrigation department has opened the Tha Wang Tan floodgate to expedite water drainage from the city. Additionally, elephants at camps along the Mae Taeng River have been relocated to higher ground as a precaution.
In Nakhon Phanom province, relentless rain has compromised the drainage system, leading to flooding in municipal areas and on several roads. Water levels have reached 30-40 centimeters, hindering vehicle movement. Efforts are underway to pump water into the Mekong River, but progress is slow due to the river's high level, which is about 2 meters below the critical flood level. Authorities have been coordinating with agencies to assist residents and issue warnings to high-risk areas, advising them to move belongings and livestock to safer locations.
The Mekong River, as it passes through Nong Khai Province, was measured at 9.94 meters this morning, a rise of 0.96 meters from the previous day. Although still below the flood warning level, the increase has prompted the deployment of water pumps by Nong Khai Municipality and the Irrigation Department. These pumps are ready to be activated to manage water levels and prevent potential flooding in Nong Khai city should the river continue to rise.