The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) warns that flash floodwaters from Pua District have reached Tha Wang Pha District and are poised to enter Nan City tonight. Authorities are ordered to monitor high-risk areas and expedite evacuation of vulnerable groups, while assessing the situation in advance. In about eight hours, the floodwaters are expected to reach Wiang Sa District before flowing into Sirikit Dam.
On 19 Aug 2023, Mr. Theerapat Kachamat, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, reported the latest flash flood situation. He said heavy rain was reported especially in mountainous areas like Pua District, where floodwaters entered around 4-5 a.m. Warnings had already been issued. The water arrived quickly, and by 3 p.m., it was flowing into Tha Wang Pha District via smaller streams to merge into the main river.
Mr. Theerapat emphasized that DDPM has been monitoring the situation closely. Based on water flow assessments, they predicted the water would reach Tha Wang Pha District and issued a cell broadcast warning around noon today.
Currently, water levels at Tha Wang Pha District have begun to rise but are expected to gradually subside. Afterwards, the floodwaters will enter Nan municipality area. It is estimated to take about eight hours for the water to reach Nan city limits. Residents there were warned via cell broadcast at 2 p.m. DDPM continues to monitor and receive reports from the field closely and will provide updates whenever water levels rise by approximately 50-60 centimeters.
Mr. Theerapat added that after passing through Nan city, the floodwaters will reach Wiang Sa District in about eight hours and then flow into Sirikit Dam in Uttaradit Province. The dam currently holds 65% of its full capacity and can still accommodate additional water to be used during the dry season.
Regarding whether the volume of water flowing into Nan city will be more or less than last year, Mr. Theerapat noted that this year Thailand is experiencing a super El Niño event and unpredictable weather. Continuous rainfall is expected. From 18-20 Aug, warnings have been issued about heavy rain in northern and northeastern regions, urging residents to stay alert and prepare accordingly.
However, from 19 to 21 August, possibly extending to 22 August, there will be ongoing assessments to determine if storms develop into depressions. Areas with rainfall should be especially cautious, particularly foothill and hillside zones. If rain persists or occurs as intense downpours ('rain bombs'), extra vigilance is required due to the risk of further flash floods.
DDPM has already deployed heavy machinery and personnel to affected areas. Coordination with DDPM in Chiang Rai Province, which has equipment on standby, is underway to assist local residents. Rescue and foundation organizations are also being mobilized to support affected communities.
Regarding evacuations, in Tha Wang Pha District officials coordinated with the district chief to warn residents about the incoming floodwaters and urged evacuation to safe zones. Vulnerable groups have been moved to shelters. Assistance was provided to help people relocate valuables. Once water levels recede, residents gradually return home to assess property damage, as the flash floods do not cause prolonged waterlogging.
When asked about particularly concerning areas in Nan Province, Mr. Theerapat said the main concern is Nan city district. Coordination with the Nan governor has been established to maintain continuous monitoring of the area.
Regarding cell broadcast warnings, Mr. Theerapat confirmed that multiple agencies jointly assess the situation, including satellite imagery and the National Disaster Warning Center. The early warning for Nan city was issued because the forecast confidently predicts water will reach the city tonight. Transportation systems and the airport are still operating normally. Residents in northern and northeastern areas experiencing heavy rain, especially those near riverbanks, should closely monitor rainfall amounts.
Mr. Theerapat also advised tourists visiting riverside locations to avoid water activities during the rainy season due to the risk of sudden flash floods.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has emphasized close monitoring, assistance, and response to the situation, issuing directives through the Deputy Minister of Interior.