Australian tourist escapes drowning amid South Thailand flooding
An Australian tourist had a narrow escape from drowning in South Thailand after his car plunged into a flooded ditch amidst severe flooding in Nakhon Si Thammarat. The deluge has affected 21 districts, severing numerous roads and resulting in the tragic loss of four lives. As heavy rainfall continues to worsen the situation, rescue teams are tirelessly working to assist those in dire need.
The ongoing crisis in Nakhon Si Thammarat has escalated as persistent heavy rain causes widespread flooding across almost all districts. The Nakhon-Phra Phrom Road, near the Central Nakhon Si Thammarat shopping mall, is heavily inundated, leaving small vehicles unable to pass.
Similar conditions prevail on the Naphru-Benjama Road, connecting Phra Phrom and Mueang districts, where the western side is impassable. Vehicles can only traverse via the eastern route, where swift currents make driving hazardous. Many cars have broken down, with five to six vehicles stranded, requiring towing assistance.
The unnamed Australian tourist, unfamiliar with the route, encountered peril when his car veered off the road into a water-filled ditch. Fortunately, he had the presence of mind to open the car window, allowing him to swim to safety.
The floodwaters also engulf Thew Buri Road, in front of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Administrative Organisation. Residents wade through water more than 1 metre deep seeking help.
Near Ramkhamhaeng University in Tha Sai subdistrict, Phra Phrom district, the floodwaters are so high that neither small nor large vehicles can pass. Rescue teams are actively assessing the situation and providing urgent assistance to affected residents.
In Navat alley within the Nakhon Si Thammarat municipality, a low-lying community, floodwaters over 1 metre deep led to the discovery of a deceased man, unidentified, whose body was caught in the alley. Locals, with the help of municipal officers, retrieved the body, awaiting family identification.
“The community is working together to manage the impact of this disaster as best they can.”
Despite a reduction in rainfall intensity, the water level from the Khao Luang mountain range continues to flow into the municipal areas.
According to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, from November 21 to yesterday, December 16, 21 districts have been affected, including Thung Song, Mueang, Chulabhorn, Sichon, Chian Yai, Cha-uat, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Phra Phrom, Phrom Khiri, Pak Phanang, Hua Sai, Ron Phibun, Nopphitam, Phipun, Nabon, Bang Khan, Chawang, Khanom, Tha Sala, Chang Klang, and Lan Saka.
The flooding has impacted 130 subdistricts, 1,056 villages, and 59 communities, affecting 107,937 households and 311,226 people, with a death toll of four.
In upstream areas such as Lan Saka, Phrom Khiri, and Nopphitam districts, continuous heavy rains have caused water masses to flood the region. These waters merged into Phra Phrom, Tha Sala, and the Nakhon Si Thammarat municipality floodplain yesterday, December 16.
The water level in the main canals flowing through the Nakhon Si Thammarat municipal area has risen and overflowed into residential areas, making streets impassable. Residents have resorted to walking and using boats for transportation.
The Nakhon Si Thammarat municipality has issued warnings since last night, advising people to relocate belongings and evacuate to safety. Schools under the municipal jurisdiction are being used as temporary shelters for the displaced population, reported KhaoSod.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Bangkok Post reports that renewed flooding in southern Thailand has killed three and affected over 43,500 households, with local officials deploying resources to aid residents amid ongoing wet weather threats. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is Nakhon Si Thammarat particularly vulnerable to severe flooding?
Its geographical location near mountain ranges and low-lying areas exacerbates flood risks.
How do local communities and authorities coordinate during flood emergencies in Thailand?
They engage in swift rescue operations and utilise local knowledge to manage disaster impacts.
What if the floodwaters from the Khao Luang mountain range continue to rise?
Increased levels could lead to further devastation in downstream municipal areas.
How does persistent heavy rain affect infrastructure and transportation in flooded regions?
It causes road inundation and vehicle breakdowns, disrupting mobility and access to aid.
What measures could improve disaster resilience in flood-prone areas like Nakhon Si Thammarat?
Enhancing drainage systems and implementing early warning systems could mitigate flood impacts.
