The Director of the National Water Command Center warned of "Nan floods," stating that water masses from Pua District are expected to reach Mueang Nan District on 20-21 August, then proceed to Wiang Sa District. If heavy rain continues, there is a risk of repeated flooding, and residents are advised to stay closely alert.
Today (19 Aug 2026), continuous heavy rainfall caused flash floods in Pua District, Nan Province, inundating many homes.
The Facebook page 'Nan Province Public Relations' reported landslides blocking roads and fallen trees obstructing several points. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) issued a Cell Broadcast warning residents to beware of flash floods, landslides, to move belongings to higher ground, relocate vehicles, secure valuables, and transfer vulnerable groups to shelters.
The Thairath Online special reporting team contacted Mr. Thanarot Waratprasert, Director of the National Water Command Center, National Water Resources Office (NWRO). He revealed that yesterday (18 Aug 2026) rainfall accumulated over 200-300 mm across Nan Province, including Pua, Tha Wang Pha, and San Suk Districts, causing floodwaters to flow into the Nan River basin and inundate communities.
Mr. Thanarot analyzed that within the next 1-2 days, water will move toward the city area and flow into Sirikit Dam, which currently holds about 50% capacity, sufficient to accommodate the inflow. This will benefit water reserves for the upcoming dry season, as after September, rainfall typically shifts to lower northern regions, reducing inflows to the dam.
Water from the dam will flow downstream along the Nan River to Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Nakhon Sawan Provinces. River levels remain low, enabling the system to handle the current situation, and even if storms recur, it is expected to manage the water volume.
Mr. Thanarot expects that on 20-21 August 2026, water levels in Mueang Nan District will approach riverbanks before continuing downstream to Wiang Sa District, where low-lying areas might experience river overflow. If heavy rains persist, localized flooding could occur, although water volumes will not be as high or severe as in early August.
He stated that based on preliminary assessments, rainfall over the next seven days from today (19 Aug 2026) is expected to be about 30-40 mm, unlikely to cause flooding. However, the situation will be continuously monitored, and if rainfall exceeds forecasts, Mueang Nan could be affected.
Relevant agencies will maintain vigilance, prepare, inspect, and reinforce dikes or flood barriers in low-lying areas, and deploy water pumps at critical points for rapid drainage. Currently, agencies are capable of managing the water situation.
Mr. Thanarot indicated that if rainfall surpasses 100 mm beyond forecasts, response plans will be adjusted accordingly, including preparations for evacuation. The situation will be closely monitored, and information updated to relevant agencies to ensure readiness.
As of today (19 Aug 2026), the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation at the local level, the Public Relations Department, Nan Province Public Relations, and networks of volunteers from related agencies are acting as communicators. They are prepared to handle landslides, flash floods, and rainfall, striving to disseminate timely information to local residents.