NAKHON PHANOM, Thailand – Six to seven hours of heavy rain caused flooding and waterlogging across parts of Nakhon Phanom on August 9, disrupting traffic and sending floodwater into several homes along the Nakhon Phanom–That Phanom bypass. Around four to five houses near Ban Noi Tai community in Mueang Nakhon Phanom district were affected after water overflowed from a roadside canal. Residents rushed to pump out water, move belongings to higher ground and, in some cases, relocate sick family members from their homes as water levels rose.
Meanwhile, three vehicles were involved in a collision on the bypass toward central Nakhon Phanom near the Ban Noi Tai junction. One person was injured and all three vehicles were damaged.
The vehicles involved were a white Toyota pickup, a Mitsubishi Pajero and a black Mazda CX-5. The Mazda was forced off the road and into the roadside canal, where it struck a streetlight and sustained heavy front-end damage.
Police said the pickup was travelling behind the Pajero when the Pajero slowed near the junction after the Mazda began emerging from the side road. The pickup was unable to stop in time and struck the rear of the Pajero, sending it forward and causing the Pajero to collide with the Mazda.
The Mazda then lost control and fell into the canal. Traffic police from Mueang Nakhon Phanom Police Station and other agencies responded to the scene, assisted the injured person, moved the damaged vehicles and managed traffic through the flooded area.
Heavy rain and slippery, waterlogged road conditions are considered possible contributing factors, although police will examine evidence and question those involved before determining the exact cause. Authorities are continuing to monitor flooding in Nakhon Phanom, particularly low-lying areas and roads affected by standing water. Motorists have been urged to reduce speed, increase following distances and take extra care while driving in heavy rain.
