RAYONG, Thailand – Severe flooding has struck Taphong subdistrict in Rayong province, marking the worst flood in over 50 years, local officials and residents reported. Floodwaters reaching depths of 1.5 to 2 meters inundated all 16 villages in the subdistrict. The sudden and strong floodwaters, caused by run-off from higher elevation areas, affected over 1,000 residents and damaged approximately 90% of vehicles in the affected areas.
“This is the first time in over 50 years that we have experienced flooding of this magnitude,” said the local subdistrict headman (Kamnan). “The floodwaters arrived rapidly, leaving residents unprepared. Boats were deployed immediately to prioritize human evacuation.”
According to local authorities, over 95% of affected residents have been evacuated. A temporary shelter set up at the village’s multi-purpose dome initially accommodated over 300 evacuees. As some residents moved to stay with relatives, fewer than 100 people remain at the shelter, where rescue workers, volunteers, and local agencies are providing food, basic supplies, and medical relief. Bedridden and ill patients have been transferred to nearby hospitals.
Local fishermen have also suspended fishing activities to assist rescue teams in transporting stranded residents. Rescue personnel conduct daily evening boat patrols to check on residents remaining in two-story homes who may wish to evacuate.
Although rainfall in the area has ceased, officials noted that water levels remain high and stable, with a slight upward trend as Taphong sits in a downstream area receiving water from upstream regions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. (TNA)
