Unexpected flooding hits Phatthalung despite no rain
In Phatthalung province, 13 families were astounded when there were awoken during the middle of the night with water flooding through their homes despite no rain in the area.
The incident took place today, April 2, when locals were caught off guard by rising waters in Mueang 6, Makok Nuea subdistrict, Khuan Khanun district, prompting a hurried evacuation of belongings to higher ground.
Yotphat Tho Saeng, a 39 year old resident, expressed confusion over the sudden flooding given the absence of rainfall. The rapid influx of water inundated his home, leaving little time to save possessions.
Fortunately, his two-storey house provided some refuge, unlike the single-storey homes of other residents, who had to seek shelter with relatives.
Mali Phunsombat, an 81 year old homeowner, noted that recent bridge construction had narrowed the waterway, impeding efficient drainage and causing her home to flood for the second time in two days. The water level was higher than before, leaving her exhausted from moving belongings alone at night.
Khuan Khanun district chief, Panet Uthairangsi, along with local village heads, visited the affected area to assist residents. He explained that the flooding resulted from the provincial irrigation department’s decision to release water from the Tha Nae dam due to forecasts by the Thai Meteorological Department warning of heavy rain in the south from April 1 to 3. The dam’s gates were opened by 40 centimetres, causing the water to overflow.
Panet further explained that ongoing road and bridge construction, coupled with a dry spell, blocked the natural flow of water, leading to the flooding. The irrigation department had acted without notifying residents, prompting Panet to request the temporary closure of the dam gates to alleviate the current situation for the community, reported KhaoSod.
Thailand’s weather chiefs have issued an urgent warning as a powerful storm looms over the country. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) announced today, April 2, that heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected across 30 provinces, including Bangkok.
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