Floods in Thailand claim 3 lives, affecting 14,657 households

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) revealed the floods in 28 of Thailand’s provinces between August 15 to 23 claimed the lives of three people and affected 14,657 households.

The government department also warned that heavy rain and flash floods would continue in many areas.

According to the report, the floods between August 15 to 23 killed three people and affected 14,657 households in 28 provinces including Chiang Rai, Lampang, Mae Hong Sorn, Pitsanulok, Petchabun, Payao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Pichit, Lamphun, Tak, Nakhon Sawan, Maha Sarakarm, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Si Saket, Mukdaharn, Bueng Karn, Yasothorn, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Prachin Buri, Sakaew, Phra Nakhon Si Ayuttaya, Ang Thong, Phan Nga, and Phuket.

Two deaths were reported from Petchabun in the central part of Thailand while information on the third death hasn’t been revealed.

The report added that 10 provinces are still under water, including Lampang, Petchabun, Phrae, Putsanulok, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Prachin Buri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayuttaya, and Ang Thong.

The DDPM reported the water levels in several provinces decreased yesterday but warned more rain is on the way. The department added they were cooperating with local officials to help victims and would investigate each area to estimate the damage later when the situation gets better.

Somkeat Kome-aen, a male victim from the Lom Sak district of Petchabun province, made a satirical video to complain to the government. He said the area where he lives floods every year and has done for the past 30 years. He believes the government doesn’t care, and that he’d not received any state support, and no food or drinks.

The video features Somkeat pretending to enjoy a pool of dirty water in his house. The video caption said, “Now open! Lom Sak pool villa!”

His post went viral, making many government officials visit his house with survival bags. Somkeat said he didn’t want it. He wanted a real solution.

The media reported that he had sent a letter to the Ministry of Interior to ask the authorities to help the residents.

SOURCE: Khaosod | MGR Online | Matichon