Floods displace 500 households in Nan, severe damage reported

Floods have caused significant damage in the northern province of Nan, affecting eight districts and displacing over 500 households. The heavy rain led to rapid rises in river levels, particularly impacting Thawngpha district where residents struggled to evacuate their belongings in time.

The province of Nan is facing a severe flood crisis, with eight districts now affected. These districts include Chaloem Phra Kiat, Thung Chang, Chiang Klang, Pua, Thawngpha, Ban Luang, Wiang Sa, and Nanoi. The heavy rainfall caused river levels to rise quickly, overflowing into residential areas and farmlands, causing widespread distress and damage to numerous residents.

Thawngpha district is experiencing critical conditions as floodwaters surged into homes rapidly, leaving residents with little time to save their belongings. Many were only able to move their vehicles to higher ground on the median strips of roads.

The flooding affected 10 subdistricts and 68 villages, with particularly severe conditions in Thawngpha Village in Moo 2 and Moo 7, Aharm Village in Moo 3, and Sobyao in Moo 4, Thawngpha subdistrict. Here, water levels have exceeded 2 metres, inundating over 500 households, most of which are single-storey homes. Residents have been forced to evacuate to relatives’ homes or evacuation centres set up at Thawngpha Pittayakhom School.

Moreover, the floodwaters have inundated Route 101, a major road, with water levels rising above 1 metre, making it impassable for small vehicles. In the Chaloem Phra Kiat district, landslides have blocked several routes, preventing any vehicle from passing.

Forced to leave

A resident described the rapid onset of the flooding.

“The water came so quickly that we couldn’t save much. We had to leave most of our things behind and focus on getting to safety.”

Another resident shared their experience.

“We’ve never seen anything like this before. The water rose so fast; it was terrifying. We had no choice but to leave everything behind.”

Local officials urge residents in the affected areas to stay alert and heed evacuation orders as more rain is expected. Emergency services are on high alert, ready to assist with evacuations and provide necessary aid to those in need.

The governor of Nan appealed to the national government for additional support and resources to help manage the crisis. Efforts are being made to assess the full extent of the damage and to plan for recovery and rebuilding once the floodwaters recede.

The situation remains precarious, with weather forecasts predicting further heavy rainfall. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and to prioritise their safety, reported KhaoSod.