UDON THANI, Thailand – Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul visited Udon Thani province on October 5 to inspect flood-affected areas and distribute relief supplies to residents in Khok Sa-at subdistrict. He also led officials to survey the Huai Luang Reservoir, which has seen water levels rise sharply due to runoff from Tropical Storm Bualoi.
The storm brought heavy rain between September 29 and 30, causing flooding across 20 districts and inundating both residential and agricultural areas. Nong Han district recorded the highest rainfall at 170 millimeters, followed by Nong Wua So and Kut Chap districts, which recorded 123.5 and 110.2 millimeters, respectively. The flooding has disrupted local livelihoods and left several communities struggling with water accumulation.
Although rainfall has eased, runoff from the Phu Phan mountain range continues to feed into the Huai Luang Reservoir, pushing water levels beyond its capacity and triggering overflow through the emergency spillway. The Royal Irrigation Office 5 has raised red warning flags across the Huai Luang Basin and deployed 11 water propulsion machines at the Ban Sam Phrao watergate to accelerate drainage. Authorities have warned that if another storm develops, additional water releases may be required, which could raise river levels above last year’s peak.
Local authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant, provide ongoing support, and closely monitor the reservoir’s conditions. Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert and prepare for possible evacuation if water levels continue to rise.
Meanwhile, engineers are urgently installing a temporary Bailey bridge to replace the Khok Sa-at–Sriburapha Bridge, which collapsed after being damaged by strong currents from the Huai Luang Dam. The new structure will restore connectivity between Khok Sa-at and Mueang Phia Subdistricts, easing travel disruptions and maintaining access to essential services. (NNT)
