PHAYAO, Thailand – Phayao province is experiencing widespread flooding after overnight downpours on July 22, with multiple districts reporting submerged roads, rising river levels, and damage to agricultural land. Chiang Kham district has been hit hard, where streets near Phayao Hospital are underwater, prompting emergency crews to deploy sandbags and tarpaulins to prevent water from entering hospital buildings. Small vehicles are struggling to navigate flooded roadways.
At Ban Pluk Bridge in Chedi Kham subdistrict, rising waters from the Sa Creek and Yuan River have reached the bridge level. Authorities have blocked access for smaller vehicles due to strong currents and set up warning signs. Evacuation orders have been issued for the surrounding areas to avoid accidents or vehicle damage.
Flooding continues along the Lao River in Mae Lao subdistrict, with surrounding areas including Fai Kwang, Wiang, and Yuan also affected. In Rom Yen subdistrict, the Yuan River is swelling rapidly. Continuous rain is adding to the problem, with roads in multiple subdistricts now impassable. Repeated flood zones, such as Ban La and Ban Chaiyaprom in Wiang, along with Ban Ngun and Ban Pa Daet in Yuan, are experiencing road flooding due to river overflow.
Ang Thong subdistrict is facing rising water levels along the Ing River, prompting warnings from district officials and the activation of emergency response teams. Local administrative units have been instructed to monitor flood conditions closely and deploy resources to protect residents and infrastructure.
Floodwaters have reached farmland and orchards in several districts, adding to concerns about long-term damage. The heaviest rainfall remains concentrated in Chiang Kham and surrounding subdistricts, with continued overflow from the Ing, Lao, and Yuan rivers. With no letup in rainfall, provincial authorities remain on high alert. (NNT)
