The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) warns that flash floodwaters from Pua District are flowing toward Tha Wang Pha District and are expected to enter Nan City tonight. Authorities have ordered close monitoring of high-risk areas, expedited evacuation of vulnerable groups, and advance assessment of conditions before the water flows into Wiang Sa District and then into Sirikit Dam.
At 14:00 on 19 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Theerapat Kachamat, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, reported the latest flash flood situation. Heavy rain has fallen, especially in mountainous Pua District, where water began flowing into the district around 4 to 5 a.m. Warnings were issued earlier as the water arrived quickly. By 15:00, water was flowing down into Tha Wang Pha District via small tributaries converging into the main river.
Mr. Theerapat emphasized that the DDPM is monitoring closely because, based on watercourse assessments, the flow is expected to reach Tha Wang Pha District. A cell broadcast warning was issued around 12:00 today. Water levels in Tha Wang Pha have begun to rise but are expected to gradually recede. The floodwaters will then flow into Nan Municipality, estimated to take about eight hours to reach the municipal area. Residents were warned via cell broadcast at 14:00. The DDPM continues to track the situation closely with reports from the field and will notify the public whenever water levels rise by approximately 50 to 60 centimeters.
Mr. Theerapat added that after the floodwaters pass through Nan City, they will reach Wiang Sa District in about eight hours and then flow into Sirikit Dam in Uttaradit Province. The dam currently holds 65 percent of its total capacity and can still accommodate more water, which will be used during the dry season.
Regarding whether the volume of water entering Nan City will be greater or less than last year, to help residents assess the situation, Mr. Theerapat stated that Thailand is currently experiencing the effects of a super El Niño and climate variability, resulting in continuous rainfall. From 18 to 20 August, warnings were issued about heavy rain in the northern and northeastern regions, urging the public to remain vigilant and prepare accordingly.
However, between 19 and 21 August, possibly extending to 22 August, authorities will need to assess whether a tropical depression might form. Areas experiencing rainfall should be closely watched, especially foothill and low-mountain regions. If rain persists or occurs as intense 'rain bombs,' increased caution is necessary due to the heightened risk of additional flash floods.
The DDPM has deployed heavy machinery and equipment along with personnel to affected areas. Coordination with Chiang Rai's provincial disaster prevention department, which has equipment on standby, is underway to assist local residents. Rescue organizations and foundations are also being mobilized to provide aid.
Regarding evacuation efforts for affected residents, such as in Tha Wang Pha District, the district chief has warned locals of the incoming floodwaters, urging evacuation to safe zones. Vulnerable groups have already been moved to evacuation centers. Assistance has been provided to relocate valuable belongings. As water levels recede, residents gradually return home to inspect their properties and assess damage, as the flash floods do not cause prolonged inundation.
When asked if there are particular areas in Nan Province of special concern, Mr. Theerapat expressed worry about Nan City and confirmed coordination with the Nan provincial governor to ensure continuous monitoring of these areas.
Regarding the cell broadcast warnings, Mr. Theerapat confirmed that multiple agencies, including satellite monitoring and the National Disaster Warning Center, collaborated in the assessments. He stressed that the early warnings for Nan City are due to forecasts indicating that floodwaters will definitely reach the city tonight. Public transportation and the airport remain operational. Other areas in the north and northeast experiencing heavy rain, especially riverside communities, should closely monitor rainfall volumes.
Mr. Theerapat also urged tourists visiting locations near rivers to avoid swimming or entering the water during the rainy season due to the risk of sudden flash floods at this time.